Banbury's Will Bratt might not make it on to the grid at Magny-Cours for the second event of the 2011 FIA Formula 2 Championship next weekend due to a budget shortfall which is threatening to de-rail his season after just one event.

The 23-year-old, who is sixth in the driver standings and the highest ranked Brit after two runner-up spots at Silverstone three weeks ago, is confident of success at the French circuit, but desperately in need of funding to help him continue his front-running challenge.

After taking a second place finish in round one, Bratt was disqualified in the second race after missing black flags.

But while he is looking ahead positively, without extra financial backing, Bratt could see his 2011 season grind to a halt in the coming days.

He said: “Obviously the penalty at Silverstone was a big disappointment, but that’s in the past, I’m focused on next weekend now and aiming to get right back in the title fight.

“At this stage though we don’t know if we’ll be able to make it to Magny-Cours, we’re working really hard to secure the funds we need, but it’s very tight at the moment.

He added: “I’m confident, if we can find enough budget for next weekend, we’ll be up there fighting for wins and podiums. We’re doing everything we can to be on the grid in France.”