Formula One: Marussia 'distressed' by Bianchi speed claims during Japanese Grand Prix

British Formula One driver Max Chilton (centre) of Marussia F1 Team and his team members stand in respect for French Formula One driver Jules Bianchi of Marussia F1 Team at the Sochi autodrom circuit in Sochi on Oct 12, 2014. The Marussia Formul
British Formula One driver Max Chilton (centre) of Marussia F1 Team and his team members stand in respect for French Formula One driver Jules Bianchi of Marussia F1 Team at the Sochi autodrom circuit in Sochi on Oct 12, 2014. The Marussia Formula One team have slammed media reports that Jules Bianchi and team officials ignored safety measures before the horrific crash that left the Frenchman fighting for his life in Japan. -- PHOTO: AFP

LONDON (AFP) - The Marussia Formula One team have slammed media reports that Jules Bianchi and team officials ignored safety measures before the horrific crash that left the Frenchman fighting for his life in Japan.

The 25-year-old collided with a recovery vehicle during the Japanese Grand Prix earlier this month.

Marussia issued a statement on Wednesday vehemently denying that he had failed to slow down when marshals waved double yellow flags after Adrian Sutil's Sauber had skidded off at the same spot in heavy rain.

The team also angrily rejected claims made by Germany's Sport Bild magazine citing "new information" that team officials had ordered Bianchi to speed up in order to stay ahead of Caterham's Marcus Ericsson at Suzuka.

"The Marussia F1 Team is shocked and angered by these allegations," said Marussia in a statement.

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