Mixed emotions for Lowdon after final Manor race

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Graeme Lowdon admits to having “mixed emotions” following the end of his final race with Manor at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

Both CEO Lowdon and team principal John Booth are leaving Manor following disagreements with team owner Stephen Fitzpatrick, with Abu Dhabi their last race. Following another two-car finish at Yas Marina, Lowdon told F1i it was a bittersweet moment to know his final grand prix with the team was over having brought Manor in to F1 under the Virgin Racing name in 2010.

“I wouldn't say it’s all over!” Lowdon said. “Yeah, mixed emotions, a sense of achievement that the team is still here, and some very, very fond memories. I’ve met some great people, been racing with some fabulous people and racing teams are all about the people so that’s really probably the strongest memory, the team spirit that we’ve had.

“Time to move on, but definitely mixed emotions.”

Asked what is next for him, Lowdon - who says he wants to stay in F1 - admits he doesn’t have any firm plans yet.

“I really don’t know, I’ve been so focused on just these last few races and everything, running these F1 teams does take a bit of time so I’ve been really focused on that and nothing much else! But I’ve still got fuel in the tank and I’m always looking for a challenge. I’ve learned an awful lot in the last seven years so would be really keen to see what challenges are out there and see what’s available.”

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AS IT HAPPENED: Abu Dhabi Grand Prix

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