Kuala Lumpur, March 22 (IANS) India’s Karun Chandhok has been confirmed as a reserve driver for Team Lotus for the ensuing 2011 Formula One series, which begins March 27 in Melbourne, Australia.
The 27-year old Chandhok joins race drivers Heikki Kovalainen and Jarno Trulli, according to a release from the Malaysian team.
Luiz Razia is the third driver while Davide Valsecchi and Ricardo Teixeira are the test drivers, the release added.
Chandhok, who made his Formula One debut last year with the Hispania Racing Team, will take part in a number of Friday practice sessions, and will help the team optimise the T128’s performance potential on-track, alongside his ambassadorial role for the team as one of its official drivers.
Team Lotus principal Tony Fernandes said: ‘Karun’s appointment gives us not only his immense driving talent and F1 experience, both of which will help us develop the car even further, but also brings one of the warmest, most professional personalities I have the pleasure of knowing into the Team Lotus family.’
‘I do not think it is going too far to say that Karun represents the future of motor racing – he is living proof that geography is no boundary to talent and ambition and that you will succeed if you work hard and keep dreaming,’ Fernandes said.
Chandhok said: ‘I’ve been talking to the team for quite a while about a role with them and I’m delighted we’re now able to confirm that I will be driving for Team Lotus in 2011.’
‘The details of exactly for which sessions I will be in the car are being worked out now,’ he said.
‘These are very exciting times for Team Lotus and it’s a real honour to be able to play a part in helping shape this team’s future,’ he added.
