Manager: 'Rio Haryanto confirmed for full season'

Rio Haryanto's manager has clarified reports that the Indonesian rookie might not complete the entire 2016 season.

It was reported this week that, although backed by Indonesia via the state-owned oil company Pertamina, Haryanto's entourage is still looking for more sponsorship to deliver everything promised to the Manor team.

His manager Piers Hunnisett, however, denied the claims, telling GMM: "All is confirmed for a full season."

Haryanto, 23, had a troubled start to his Formula 1 career this week, going off track more than once and lagging teammate Pascal Wehrlein's pace by several seconds.

Asked if the long-time GP2 driver simply pushed the Mercedes-powered car beyond its limits, new racing director Dave Ryan confirmed: "I think so. Frankly, I would have been surprised if there were no incidents. As long as he is learning, it's okay."

The new season gets underway with the Australian Grand Prix on March 20.