Karun Chandok says he’s optimistic that Team Lotus will allow him to compete at his home race, the Indian GP, which will make its Formula 1 debut later this year.
The Indian driver joined Team Lotus as a reserve at the start of 2011 having lost his seat at Hispania. He made his first appearance at the season opening Australian GP during FP1, but lasted just a single lap after hitting the barrier.
His debut, and to date only race appearance for the Norfolk based outfit, happened at the German GP. He took over Jarno Trulli’s car and could only manage last place, two laps down on the far more experienced Heikki Kovalainen.
The 27-year-old is holding out for the opportunity to race in front of his home fans, a decision he believes would make a lot of sense.
“I am quite optimistic about it but I can’t say anything at this stage,” the Times of India quote him as saying.
“We have discussed it but nothing is final. It makes a lot of sense if Indian drivers are there but nothing is final at this moment.”
Meanwhile, fellow countryman Narain Karthikeyan says his outing in India was never in doubt, despite the team replacing him with newcomer, Daniel Ricciardo.
“My seat was never under question for the Indian race. Yes, I would like to have a race or two to warm up for the event,” he said.
“It’s a dream coming true. I got goose bumps when I saw the circuit. It’s a massive facility and I am very excited. It will be a great showcase.”
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