CHENNAI: Narain Karthikeyan, known as “The Fastest Indian in the World” is pleased as punch to be back in the FI circuit with Hispania racing team after a gap of five years.
He states that he never gave up hopes of making a comeback into the F1 circuit. He adds that despite being in his 30’s he is fit as a fiddle and is raring to make an impact in front of his home crowd when the Indian GP gets going. Narain, after test driving a MRF 1600 formula car, spoke with TNIE. Excerpts:
On his return to F1
It feels great. I would say it was a big surprise for me. It is a great opportunity, with Indian Grand Prix coming. The timing is perfect, we can not ask for a better time to be back in F1.
I never gave up hope. I have always said that it was unfinished business. There were few opportunities along the way, but this (HRT) was a good offer and I think I have taken a good and wise decision.
On his surprise inclusion
Because it all came in the last few weeks of December. Suddenly it (offer) came from Colin Kolles MD, Hispania Racing Team (HRT). I never lost touch with single seater formula cars. Whatever programmes I have done so far could be a benefit. I kept myself in top physical condition in the last 4-5 years.
On his motivational factor
Driving for India in the A1 GP always boosted my confidence. We just did not make up the numbers but we won races. All this kept me motivated. If I was not motivated, I would not have come this far. When I began in 1992 I got nothing, compared to the facilities which the kids have today. It is in my nature that I never lose hope. Perhaps, this is the reason, I could make it all the way here.
On plans with his team
There are lot of plans with the car and other technical components. Test drives are all scheduled from Februuary 1 onwards in Spain and later on in Bahrain. We are not quite sure which are the tests that we are going to take part.
On his expectations
It’s a small team. We have our limitations with the package they had with Williams. We all believe that we will get a better package from last year. How much more improvement (in the car) we have to wait and see. I can only tell about the coming season after I complete my test drive sessions and get the feel of the car.
On age being a factor
There have been researches and it has been revealed that one can get stronger in 30’s. I am going with that theory. Personally, I have done a lot of fitness drills.
On the Indian GP track getting ready on time
I believe its on track.
On Indian presence in F1
There will be lot of support for Force India because it is an Indian team and also for me because I am an Indian driver, and will be driving in front of the home crowd.
On other sports events affect ing the sport in India
Yes there are lot of events lined up. In my case, I am very lucky to have a sponsor in Tata Group, plus MRF, Bharat Petroleum and Amaron.
On his best race in 2005
I think I drove well in San Merino. We set some very good times. Then qualifying in Suzuka was also good.