Fuel system problems meant retirement for both Hispania Racing cars in the Turkish Grand Prix, but the team did show good pace compared to their nearest rivals Virgin Racing.
Bruno Senna retired from the race on Lap 47 but teammate Karun Chandhok was classified 20th for his efforts on race day.
Team principal Colin Kolles gave his reaction to the events: “It was a difficult race for us,” he said. “We were running well and making good progress, gaining good experience. It was disappointing to have one car retire on a fuel system problem and Karun Chandhok not finish higher than 20th.”
Karun Chandhok suffered problems with tyres and had other performance issues in the race. “It is a bit frustrating to be classified not higher than 20th,” said the Indian driver. “In the first stint I was struggling with the pace compared to Bruno's and the Virgins'. But as we changed to the options tyres the pace came back.
“Early in the race, the fuel pump failed and I was struggling today for straight line speed. Unfortunately, I finished my race five laps before the chequered flag in the pits.”
In contrast, Bruno Senna was encouraged by his performance in Turkey. “I had a pretty good race today,” he said. “The start was good and I could win some positions. Also the first laps were quite good. At the end I had a problem with the fuel system and that's why I had to retire.
“During the race, we were a bit unlucky with traffic as we were ahead of both Virgins. It is sad the we had a fuel pressure problem that caused us to end our race prematurely. But we are on top of it and hopefully we can get it sorted.
“I had a fair battle with Lucas Di Grassi as we had a faster car than Virgin and hopefully we can have another fight for positions soon.”
