Chandhok for German GP
Indian to replace Trulli at Lotus
Exactly a year ago, Karun Chandhok’s stint in Formula One was cut short after his relationship with Hispania Racing Team soured.
Now, the Chennai-born lad will get another chance to make his mark when he lines up on the starting grid of the German Grand Prix for Team Lotus on July 24.
The 27-year old, signed up by Lotus at the start of this season as a reserve driver, will replace the 37-year-old Jarno Trulli at Nuerburgring in Germany.
“It should be a fun weekend,” Chandhok said over phone from Germany. “(Lotus team principal) Tony (Fernandes) has been keen on making an all-Asian Formula One team, and the outcome of that is a chance to drive in F1 again.
“It’s fantastic to be back. This last year has been a learning experience. All I need to focus on now is the drive. I need to be sensible and take control of the car,” he added.
Since Chandhok’s last race, the 2010 Silverstone Grand Prix, the FIA has made a lot of changes to the cars, especially with the introduction of new Pirelli tyres and the much-debated Drag Reduction System (DRS). Though the Indian has had his fair share of experience during free practice runs in the T128, it remains to be seen if he acclimatises quickly enough for Sunday’s race.
“I’m a very motivated person. It’s going to be quite a challenge to drive on the new Pirellis and use DRS for the first time. “I, however, promised Tony that I would drive a sensible race.”
Fernandes added, “As a young Asian driver, Karun faces even more obstacles in achieving his goals compared to his counterparts from established motor sport homelands.”
