It is understood Chilton, who finished fourth in last season’s GP2 Series with
two victories, has also been able to acquire considerable financial backing
to help fund his drive.
Chilton added: “This comes at the end of what has been a fantastic year
for me.
“Those steps – my GP2 pole positions and wins, my performances in the F1
young driver test and in FP1 at Abu Dhabi – have given everyone the
confidence in my ability to compete at the highest level of motor sport.
“I am very fortunate to have spent the last six races with Marussia as
reserve driver, which means that instead of a standing start I am already up
to speed and at ease with the people, the culture, the systems and of
course, the 2012 package.
“During the period since the Japanese Grand Prix I have watched at very
close quarters the incredible commitment and determination to succeed that
saw everyone in the team pushing until the very last race.
“I feel very lucky to be able to embark on my F1 racing career with this
group of people.
“Pre-season testing is just a few weeks away, so my focus now is to
continue my physical preparation whilst spending as much time as possible
working with the technical team to help develop the car I will drive in my
debut F1 season.”
Team principal John Booth feels Chilton’s development has been “rapid”
following his appointment as reserve driver.
“First and foremost, he has shown himself to be extremely capable in the
car,” Booth said.
“Most recently, in Abu Dhabi, he was put to the test in a competitive
environment which included providing him with an opportunity to demonstrate
his outright pace and consistency over a single lap.
“We saw just how much he has progressed even since the Silverstone test
in the summer and through the succession of GP2 races thereafter, when he
achieved two pole positions and two race wins.
“Not only that, Max very quickly embedded himself within the team, thanks
in no small part to the fact he is a lively and affable character who we’ve
enjoyed having around.
“Having been integral to our race weekend engineering environment for the
past three months already – as well as having undertaken a significant part
of our simulator programme – Max has already found his feet.”