Marussia F1 team yet to decide if it races with two cars in Russia

With Jules Bianchi remaining in a critical condition in hospital in Japan following his crash last weekend, high level sources have indicated that its plans remain open and a decision will only be taken before first free practice.

Although Alexander Rossi has been nominated by the team to race alongside Max Chilton at Sochi and has appeared on the official entry list, the team is still unsure of how it wants to approach the weekend.

With its focus remaining very much on Bianchi and his family, it will only enter a second car with the full support of those closest to the Frenchman.

The team has, however, prepared a new second chassis so is ready to run in the event that it decides to push ahead with two cars.

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Formula 1's regulations mean that Marussia had to nominate both its entries for this weekend's race by 4pm on Thursday.

As Rossi is its team's official reserve driver it was logical for the team to nominate the American.

Although teams are contractually obliged to participate with two cars at each grand prix, it is understood that Marussia chiefs have been in close contact with Bernie Ecclestone to clarify that there would be no consequences if it decided to race with just one car - or even pull out of the event entirely.

Marussia team principal John Booth has decided to remain in Japan to be with Bianchi and his family rather than travel to the Russian GP.