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Williams says it wanted Marussia back on the grid this season and would have voted for it returning with a 2014 car if it meant saving the team.

Last week the F1 Strategy Group scotched Marussia's best chance of returning to the grid with last year's car. The team went into administration last October and has been on the hunt for a potential buyer since, with a new group of investors recently showing serious interest in reviving the team.

Force India's veto meant the vote did not pass on to other Strategy Group members as unanimous agreement was needed, with the team concerned over "compliance issues" and whether Marussia would be ready in time for the March 15 opener in Australia. But Williams says it was one of the six teams on the Strategy Group which made it clear it would vote in favour of the team's return, even if it had to be with an outdated car.

"We've been very clear on our position around Marussia and their entry," team principal Claire Williams told Sky Sports News. "We want a full competitive line-up on the grid next year and we will do anything to support Marussia coming back. We made it very clear that we would vote for them to be able to use the 2014 chassis this season. Unfortunately it hasn't happened, but Williams want a competitive line-up on the grid and we want to help the smaller teams.

"I think we've demonstrated that and are always pushing cost control in Formula One. That's to save the smaller teams that are really struggling, the likes of Marussia and Caterham, but also the middle teams as well at the moment that are facing some serious issues."

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