The Marussia MR02 unveiled on February 5th in Jerez

In 2012, the Marussia team had waited until March 5 to present the MR01, which had not yet passed the regulatory crash tests imposed by the FIA and was preparing to leave for Melbourne having completed only a few laps at the Silverstone circuit. This season, the Anglo-Russian team will be on time as the MR02 will be unveiled on February 5 at 8:15 a.m. at the Jerez circuit where the first private tests will begin, half an hour before the Caterham CT03.

The MR02 will have its baptism of fire on the same day, in the hands of Max Chilton, while the second Marussia seat, left vacant after Timo Glock’s departure, remains to be filled. According to the newspaper O Estado de Sao Paulo, citing a source close to the driver, Luiz Razia signed his contract on Tuesday and an announcement is expected as soon as tomorrow, Friday. In 2010, the Brazilian had been chosen by the team—Virgin Racing at the time—to be their third driver and was reportedly in advanced discussions with the team this winter, before Max Chilton’s arrival was officialized. It goes without saying that the Brazilian’s financial backers played a role in his probable appointment, as Marussia has not hidden the fact that Timo Glock’s departure would allow the team to secure its future.

2013 Car Launch Schedule: