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Chandhok signs up with ORT for GP2 series
Having failed to work out a deal with iSport international for the 2009 GP2 series, Karun Chandhok has opted for the newest team on the grid, Ocean Racing Technology, HT reports.
Having failed to work out a deal with iSport international for the 2009 GP2 series, Karun Chandhok has opted for the newest team on the grid, Ocean Racing Technology (ORT). Karun had told Hindustan Times that he had six or seven teams to select from.
“In an ideal world, stability is the best. We couldn’t get the budget in place with iSport,” Chandhok said immediately after announcing his decision to join the team owned by SEAT World Touring Car Championship driver Tiago Monteiro. “Of course, iSport is one of the top teams. They have other drivers whose sponsors are giving much more money. With the choices I had, ORT is the best.”
Chandhok had visited Portugal last week to discuss the deal. “I got to meet the people there and found the package good,” he said.
The ace Indian driver who is being tipped as India’s next driver on Formula One circuit said the new team offers opportunity.
“They are a new team. The first half of the season (he’ll be racing only the European circuit) will be tough. I can only speak on my new team after the first test, which is scheduled for March.”
Although he admits that to win the Championship is a tough ask, the aim will be to win races. “And if I do well, I am likely to get noticed by Formula One teams. A debut team is always under observation, especially if the driver does well.”
Monteiro too was happy with the deal. “He is fast, a hard worker and already has some great results on different kinds of tracks.
From what we hear, he always had an excellent working relationship with team staff. And it is good that he signed this contract well before the championship begins because now we can immediately begin work for the Main Series.”
