Chandhok prepared for testing role
Karun Chandhok says he is preparing himself for another season as an F1 test driver with his chances of securing a race seat for 2012 having all but disappeared.
Chandhok spent the 2011 season as test and reserve driver for Team Lotus and enjoyed a one-off outing with the team in the German Grand Prix at the Nurburgring.
The Indian driver had hoped that his role would lead to a full-time return to a race seat having made his debut in the sport with HRT back in 2010, but with Heikki Kovalainen and Jarno Trulli now confirmed with Caterham - the team formally known at Team Lotus - for the year ahead, Chandhok admits a season testing is again his likely option.
"I am mentally preparing myself to continue as a test driver for another season," he told the Times of India. "As of now, most of the teams have announced their list of drivers for the 2012 season. There are only two slots up for grabs -- one with the Williams and other with the HRT.
"The situation is a bit difficult but I am ready to work hard. The F1 teams are also looking at drivers who can essentially bring them good sponsorship money so it's a tough situation."
