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Karthikeyan returns to HRT

Last Updated 03 February 2012, 16:46 IST

Indian driver, Spaniard Pedro de la Rosa complete main line-up.

Narain Karthikeyan returned to Hispania Racing Team for the second straight year despite being dropped for the latter half of the 2011 season.

He will partner 40-year-old Spanish driver Pedro de la Rosa.

Karthikeyan, who was replaced by Toro Rosso test driver Daniel Ricciardo last season, was retained as HRT’s test driver, and drove in front of the home crowd at the inaugural India Grand Prix in October.

The 35-year-old felt his performance at the Indian GP proved decisive in fetching him a place this season.

"This year, compared to last, is very different. Last year, I was returning after five years and there was the added pressure. I am happy the team management chose me despite four-five drivers competing for this seat," Karthikeyan said on Friday. "I was out of action for four months before driving in the Indian Grand Prix. I think my strong performance at the Indian GP pleased the new management.”

“I am going to push as hard as possible, both inside and outside the cockpit and do whatever it takes to help the team progress in its rejuvenated form.

“Continuity is important in Formula One so I’m sure we’ll hit the ground running this year starting with some actual pre-season testing unlike last season where I first drove the new car on the opening race weekend in Australia.

So there is all the incentive for me to ensure that I carry the team forward by delivering results and ensuring that nothing is left on the table as far as performance is concerned,” he added.

The Coimbatore driver insists he still has the steam to perform and brushed aside the rumours that a big sponsorship deal got him the place.

“Age is no factor as long as one is fit and the reflexes are fine,” he said. “I have been training hard since the end of 2011. There were drivers who had more resources but I have the ability to race."

Karthikeyan also hoped the new car will turn the page. "There are no carry forwards from 2011 car. It is a brand new car. The team has some very capable people, like the new team principal and Pedro. So, things are looking up,” he said.

When asked if the team was in the reckoning for points, Karthikeyan said: “The goal is to gather some points. The objective is that, but it still is a long shot!”

Assession Karthikeyan’s appointment, team principal Luis Perez-Sala said in a statement: "He is a quick, intuitive and secure driver who met his expectations despite a lack of continuity last year.

"Of the eight Grands Prixs he contested in 2011, he only failed to finish on one occasion and had a great performance in the last race he took part in.

"I'm sure the fact that he will continue to work and drive on a regular basis will help him take a step forward this season."

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(Published 03 February 2012, 16:46 IST)

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