Merhi still hopeful of F1 role in 2016

Although the action begins in Melbourne this weekend, Roberto Merhi is still not ruling out a role in formula one in 2016.

"It is what it is," the former Manor racer told Spanish radio Cadena Cope, referring to the team's decision to replace him for 2016. "I am just happy I was lucky enough to have got a year in the world championship."

However, Merhi is still training hard and says he has "not ruled out" a last minute role.

It could be that he is still eyeing his old seat at Manor, with Indonesian reports suggesting rookie Rio Haryanto is trying to put together a budget to guarantee the entire season.

Haryanto's manager Piers Hunniset is quoted by the Jakarta Post: "We will find a way to have him stay through the season."