Third driver Soucek to terminate Virgin contract

Andy Soucek is set to terminate his contract as Virgin's third and reserve driver.

The 25-year-old Spaniard and reigning F2 champion has been disappointed that his role with the new British team has not involved any driving so far.

It is understood, however, that his contract does stipulate some test-driving duties.

The Spanish sports newspaper AS said Virgin has therefore breached the agreement, moving Soucek to leave the struggling team with immediate effect.

The Madrid-born driver is reportedly "finalising some details" before making his decision public.

AS estimated that Soucek has made several sponsor payments to Virgin amounting to about EUR 1 million, but has "decided not to pay any more due to the lack of opportunity to drive the VR01".

The newspaper said Soucek is already in talks with another team about becoming third driver elsewhere, and hopes to reach a deal before the Belgian Grand Prix in just over two weeks.

"Another of his options is to join a top GP2 team," continued the report.