Charouz prepares to drive the HRT at the Abu Dhabi Young Driver Test last week - Photo Credit: HRT
Czech driver Jan Charouz, who drove for HRT at the young driver test in Abu Dhabi last week, will be back in the car for FP1 in Brazil, the team have announced today.
Charouz completed 56 laps of the Yas Marina circuit over the course of Wednesday and Thursday last week, a total of 311 kilometres. This is enough for the 24-year-old to qualify for a superlicence, enabling him to take part in the 90-minute practice session at Interlagos on Friday morning. He will replace Vitantonio Liuzzi in the car.
“It's a great feeling to be taking part in a Formula 1 free practice session,” said Charouz. “I will be driving for HRT F1 Team once again after testing with them last Wednesday in Abu Dhabi and obtaining my Superlicence which allows me to take part in the first practice session at the Brazilian Grand Prix. I am really happy to have this opportunity and would like to thank my father for his great support. I can't forget to also thank my sponsors who make this possible.
“I hope to do well in Brazil although I am aware that it will not be easy. Interlagos is a circuit I have never raced at but one that I have tried out on the simulator and really liked it there. Hopefully the difference in experience with my teammate isn't too telling but, regardless, I will give it my best shot”.
Team principal Colin Kolles added: “Jan is an exciting up and coming driver as he proved when he drove for us at the Young Driver test last week in Abu Dhabi. He did a good job and completed more than enough kilometres in an F1 to be granted the Superlicence. He will step in for Tonio in FP1 as he looks to continue learning and I'm sure that he will be up to speed in no time. We are glad to give him the opportunity to make his Formula 1 debut and I'm sure that it will be a positive experience”.
