Jarno Trulli is proud of the contribution he made to Caterham despite being axed in favour of Vitaly Petrov for the 2012 season.
Trulli has been with Caterham, formerly known as Lotus, since their debut season in 2010 but his relationship with the team soured throughout 2011 leading to speculation that he would be dropped for the coming season.
Despite being under contract for another year the Italian has been replaced by Petrov, a move that is likely to spell the end of Trulli's Formula 1 career.
While obviously disappointed to lose his seat, Trulli took the time to thank team principal Tony Fernandes for giving him the opportunity to drive for the squad.
"I want to take this chance to thank Tony, Kamarudin, SM Nasarudin, Riad, Mike and everyone in the team for the two seasons we had together," said Trulli.
"From zero we built up and established a solid F1 team. I'm really proud to have been part of it. I understand the decision the team has made and I want to wish to the whole team the very best of luck for the season ahead."
Petrov brings with him a substantial sponsorship package and Fernandes admits the decision to replace Trulli was partly based on financial constraints.
"It was not an easy decision to bring Vitaly in to replace Jarno, but it was one we made to ensure that we give fresh impetus across the whole team and with a realistic eye on the global economic market," he said.
"Jarno has an incredible natural talent behind the wheel, and his winning record and longevity in the sport will bear testament to that talent in the Formula 1 annals forever, but now it is time to open a new chapter in our team's story, and Vitaly is the right person to help us do that."