While it's essentially a chance for drivers and riders to have a bit of fun, getting an invitation to participate in the Race of Champions is a big deal.
Participating in this year's event would mean going up against the reigning champions from MotoGP, Indycar, Formula 1 as well as a
certain seven-time F1 champion. That too in equal machinery.
Narain Karthikeyan and Karun Chandhok will get the chance to do just that after confirming their participation in the 25th edition of the event that will be held in Bangkok from December 14 to 16.
Both India and China have been invited to participate in the event for the first time and will have to face off against each other and other Asian nations to get a chance to go up against the world's best.
“The added benefit of representing your country is a real privilege," said Karthikeyan. "One which I have done before in my career so I know how special that feels."
While excited about the prospect of going up against each other and potentially the likes of Sebastian Vettel and Michael Schumacher, both drivers were realistic about what such a partnership could lead to. “It's a nice dream,” said Chandhok when asked if he and Karthikeyan could set up their own F1 team in the future. “In the immediate future, it's pretty unrealistic.”
“Unless someone here has a big cheque book!” Karthikeyan added. The subject of a potential Force India drive also came up, to which Karthikeyan's answer was pretty clear cut. “It's never gelled so I don't think it will ever happen,” said Karthikeyan.