Team Lotus reserve driver Karun Chandok has had his hopes of being competing in this weekend’s inaugural India Grand Prix dashed, as the team opted to stick with their regular race drivers.
“From the team perspective the key goal for us this weekend is to maintain the performance levels we saw in the last two races and while I am sure there will be fans in India who want to see Karun race for us on Sunday we had to make the best decision for the future of the team,” said Team Lotus boss Tony Fernandes.
“It is absolutely vital that we secure tenth place in 2011 to give us the platform to keep growing and despite the fact that Karun’s performance levels have continued to improve every time he has driven for us in 2011, it was considered too much pressure to put on Karun to drive in his first home race.”
Chandhok will, however, get the chance to drive on track in Friday’s opening 90-minute practice session.
“I am very excited about driving at the new Buddh International Circuit in FP1 in front of my home crowd and, while I am obviously disappointed that I won’t have the chance to race on Sunday, I accept the team’s decision to opt for the experience and talent they have at their disposal” Chandhok explained.
“I understand that this isn’t about me. It’s about the team and everything the 254 people on track and back at the factory are doing to build for the future.
“For me, I believe that I have grown as a driver in and out of the car this year with my role in the Friday practice sessions and I’m looking forward to playing my part in helping the team have another strong weekend on track.”
“While this is obviously not the decision Karun wanted us to take he understands that we have to take the long-term view and do so in the best interests of the team.” Fernandes added.
“He also understands that his relationship with our team is not about just one race, it is about growing together and while this is an historic event, there will be many opportunities to race in India in the future.”
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