Lucas di Grassi is disappointed to be sitting out Friday evening’s initial practice session on the streets of Singapore.

For the next four initial Friday sessions in Singapore, Japan, Korea and Brazil, the Brazilian rookie must give up his Virgin cockpit to the team’s new test driver Jerome d’Ambrosio.

Di Grassi is quoted by the Brazilian outlet Agencia Estado as admitting that missing practice in Singapore is a particular disadvantage.

“This is my first time in Singapore.  It’s a pity I am missing the first session as the circuit is one of the most difficult in the entire calendar,” he said.

“But it was a team decision based on a financial issue and I must respect it,” added the 26-year-old.

“It’s going to affect my adaptation to the track conditions and also the balance of the car,” di Grassi warned.  “But I will do everything I can to make up for the lost time in the second practice.

“As a competitor, it’s a frustrating situation, but it’s a challenge that will not stop me from trying to do my best throughout the weekend,” he added.

If Belgian d’Ambrosio can amass EUR 5 million in sponsorship, it is believed Virgin is considering signing him to be Timo Glock’s 2011 teammate.