Outgoing Manor F1 chief Graeme Lowdon: 'I've done the right thing'

Sporting director Lowdon and team principal Booth, who in tandem built up the organisation after it was given an F1 entry in 2009, are to leave come the end of next weekend's final race of this season in Abu Dhabi.

Despite attracting Mercedes as an engine partner from next year, and acquiring a Williams transmission, it is understood a fallout with owner Stephen Fitzpatrick has resulted in the parting of the ways.

While Lowdon concedes he is sad to be going in one respect given what the team has been through in its short time in F1, he feels his decision is the right one.

"It would be nice to be involved in a bit more racing in F1 next season, but I'm confident I'm doing the right thing," Lowdon told Autosport.

"Looking back the challenges we've had over the six years have been very, very varied, some of which have been very difficult.

"There's an awful lot of hard work that has gone in, particularly last winter in trying to keep the team alive.

"So while I am leaving, there is a sense of achievement in that the team is still here and in a position to go forward."

Due to an arrangement with Fitzpatrick, Lowdon has yet to find himself another position, either in F1, motorsport or beyond, but he accepts the lure of F1 is still strong.

He added: "I agreed with the current owners I wouldn't look for any new employment while still with the team.

"The most important thing was to see out the season and focus on the task in hand, which is making sure we completed the season to the best of our abilities.

"Because of that I haven't looked for anything, not even in terms of opportunities in Formula 1.

"So I'll look for the next challenge, and if an opportunity did arise in F1 then I'd return.

"F1 is a fascinating business, and the opportunities are massive.

"The next 10 years could be some of the most exciting in its history in terms of growth and how the fans can interact.

"Potentially it's a really exciting period to be in F1."