Heikki Kovalainen’s brilliant performance in qualifying for the United States Grand Prix could have earned him a drive with Lotus for 2014, but only if he can continue that good form according to Eric Boullier.
The Finnish driver stepped in to replace Kimi Raikkonen who underwent back surgery earlier in the week. The former Renault, McLaren and Caterham driver hasn’t had a full-time race seat since 2012 and has only taken part in a few practice sessions this year.
Qualifying eighth considering he’d never stepped into the Lotus E21 prior to Austin has impressed team bosses at Lotus and could have potentially earned him a seat.
“He can be [an option],” Boullier said of the 32-year-old.
“It is true that he was not originally on the list, but if he’s doing well now, he can change our minds….I don’t know, anything is possible.”
It is however more likely Lotus will opt for Nico Hulkenberg or Pastor Maldonado, depending on whether their deal with Quantum Motorsport goes through.
Kovalainen meanwhile is expected to replace Charles Pic at Caterham.
