Mat Coch writes:

Though disappointed not to be competing himself, Lotus reserve drier Davide Valsecchi has said the team made the right decision in picking Heikki Kovalainen to replace Kimi Raikkonen.

It's a remarkable statement from the 2012 GP2 champion, who missed out on Raikkonen's vacant seat for the United States and Brazilian Grands Prix.

"The team decided with Kovalainen and the story is paying off, so I think they decided well," he admitted. "We will have to see it after the weekend but considering how it is going so far I think it was a good choice."

Locked in battle with Mercedes and Ferrari for the runner-up spot in the constructors' title, Lotus opted for Kovalainen's proven experience rather than Valsecchi's raw potential. It was a decision the Italian learnt on Tuesday before heading to the circuit, and while it disappointed him he could understand the team’s position.

"I was hoping to get it but they told me that the standings are extremely important and they really want to fight with Ferrari for third in the championship," explained the 26-year-old. "I think Kovalainen was a bit more safety.

"I am not thinking that I was so far behind," he added. "If you consider the gap there is between Grosjean and Kovalainen… maybe (I could have matched it), but we don't have the proof. What we know is that the story is working out really well for us, so at this time the decision is well done."

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