Karthikeyan thrilled about maiden Indian GP
Tuesday 25, October 2011
Indian driver Narain Karthikeyan is looking forward to the highlight of his career when Formula One makes its debut in India on Sunday.
Karthikeyan told dpa Sunday's home race in New Delhi was "easily" the biggest moment for him so far as a racer.
"This will be my greatest day," said Karthikeyan, the lone Indian driver competing in Sunday's race.
The 34-year-old, who races for the struggling Hispania Racing Team, aims to enjoy the occasion although his race expectations are modest.
"I want to finish the race," he said. "My first opponent will be my teammate (Daniel Ricciardo) and maybe we can attack the other new teams," said.
"The circuit does not particularly suit our car but I will be giving my best, for the huge support alone. I am so happy to be driving here. It's something I couldn't expect a couple of years ago."
Karthikeyan, who became India's first F1 driver in 2005, said Formula One was gaining in popularity in India and the race at the newly-constructed Buddh International Circuit would be sold out.
"Everybody is really keen to see how it will be. There are a lot of fans. I think it will be pretty good," he said.
"To hold a race in India is something special for everyone. The people in India will see what an incredible amount of work and technology goes into Formula One. It will give them a completely new perspective.
"We Indian drivers hope that this positive marketing will help us in the next few years. India is a growing economic power in the world and many companies want to be in this global market. Formula One could be a good platform for them."
Home fans were also hoping to be watching a second Indian driver Sunday, but Lotus tester Karun Chandhok has lost out on the chance to race after the team decided to retain regular line-up Heikki Kovalainen and Jarno Trulli.
Chandhok, however, will be in the car during Friday's opening practice session.
Credit: Narain Karthikeyan (www.narainracing.com)
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