India’s fastest racer, Karun Chandhok in a rapid fire interview with Shubham Nag.
Fastest Indian, but not yet the fastest in the world… how big is the gap between F1 and other lower classes of auto racing?
GP2 is the best stepping stone to F1. The cars there are the closest thing to F1 in the world. It’s just a matter of getting used to having more people around all the time and more electronics in the car to figure out really. Having a power steering is definitely a bonus though!
After the German Grand Prix, you said that you deserve another go… what are your chances of racing in the first ever Indian Grand Prix?
Well that’s for the team and Tony Fernandes to eventually decide… I hope I can perform in front of a packed home crowd in Delhi!
First Narain, now you and also with the presence of Force India, India seems to be fast becoming a considerable name in F1. Is the situation as good as it looks from the outside?
The sport in India is certainly growing. There’s been a lot of hype and expectation on me from 1.2 billion people, and I hope not to disappoint anyone. I hope many more companies step up to promote motorsport in the country as they stand to gain a lot!
What is your idea of an ideal Sunday race preparation?
I treat it like any other day but make sure I get all my preparations. After I put my overalls on, it’s just a case of finding your zone and remaining focused until the 5 lights go off!
Given a choice, which F1 team would you like to race for and why?
I’m very happy with Team Lotus and it’s a team with tremendous potential for the future and the right vision with Tony Fernandes at the helm, so I’d have to say I’m pretty happy right now.
If Karun Chandhok was not a racer, what would he be?
I’d have to say a commentator or a team manager. I’ve done my fair share of commentary with the BBC in the UK and ESPN-STAR in Asia and have had great feedback and enjoyed every stint.
Other than racing, what else do you keep yourself engaged with?
My Dad and I run a team in the Indian National Racing Championship, training young drivers to hopefully make their way towards Formula 1. And I’m a huge cycling enthusiast.
Do you think the Indian Grand Prix can kickoff a new beginning for racing in India?
I think a lot depends on the Indian Grand Prix. If we can get the grandstands packed and get the media excited about the race, it will make a big difference.
Which is your favourite track in the country?
I’d probably have to say the circuit at Sriperumbudur!
Where you see yourself 5 years down the line?
The goal is to make sure that I establish myself as a credible, respected and solid Formula 1 driver who’s in F1 for the long run.
