The FIA has reimbursed Manor Grand Prix Racing Limited’s 2017 F1 entry free as a goodwill gesture to help the company pay off outstanding debts.

The team collapsed in January following a period of administration for its operating company, Just Racing Services Limited. However, the company that owned the team entry – Manor Grand Prix Racing Ltd – was not in administration, with negotiations continuing with potential new owners through March in an attempt to revive the team. With no buyer, the British-based team put its assets up for auction shortly thereafter.

In a statement, the FIA said: “Just Racing Services Limited, the company within the Manor Group responsible for servicing the team went into administration in January of this year and ceased trading later that month. Consequently, the team did not take any part in the 2017 Championship.

“The FIA has therefore decided to return the entry fee, less the administrative costs incurred by the Federation as part of the entry process, to the entity within the Manor Group in administration as a gesture of goodwill to assist in payment of outstanding debts.”

RACER’s Chris Medland contributed to this report.