21/09/2010
NEWS STORY
F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone has admitted that his is keen to see Indian racer Karun Chandhok back in an F1 car as soon as possible.
With India hosting its first Grand Prix next season, Ecclestone knows the value of having a local driver on the grid. However, following some impressive performances - considering the equipment at his disposal - Karun Chandhok has been dropped by the struggling Hispania outfit in favour of Sakon Yamamoto.
During a trip to Delhi to check on the progress being made at the new circuit, Ecclestone - a close friend of the Chandhok family - admitted that he is keen to see the youngster back on the grid next season, though hopefully in a more competitive car.
"Having an Indian team is obviously a big help," he told the Times of India, referring to Vijay Mallya's Force India. "However, an Indian driver will be an even better deal.
"I want to see Karun in a better car next year," he continued. "He served his apprenticeship in a car that he could do nothing about. He really needs to be in a team where he can show his potential because I think he can be very, very good if he gets the right car.
"Karun is a very good driver, he understands the nuances of the sport very well and if he is able to get a better car, he would be able to make a big difference."