GP2: Rowland returns with Status team

Formula Renault 3.5 champion Oliver Rowland will return to the GP2 field for the final two rounds of the season with Status Grand Prix.

The British racer made two appearances earlier in the GP2 season with MP Motorsport at Silverstone and Spa, scoring points at the former and qualifying on the front row at the latter. The deal with Status means Rowland will compete in the Bahrain and Abu Dhabi GP2 rounds that close out the season, although it is not yet clear which of the team's existing drivers – Marlon Stockinger and Richie Stanaway – will make way.

"The Racing Steps Foundation felt that driving for Status offered me a good opportunity to gain valuable experience at tracks that I've not raced on previously," Rowland said. "I'm delighted to be back in GP2 again – the car suits my style of driving so hopefully I can give a good account of myself.

"As always the target at both rounds will be podium finishes. Naturally, if I could add to the team's wins at Monaco and Sochi, I'd be over the moon."

Team owner Teddy Yip Jr added: "Oliver is a world-class driver with a Formula 1 career beckoning. It won't be an easy task competing against so many experienced GP2 drivers but we have full confidence in his driving ability and commitment to the program.

"Providing talented drivers with a platform to shine is incredibly important to me and having achieved two race victories in our maiden GP2 season with Richie, we can be proud of our achievements to date."

Originally on Autosport.com