• Brazilian Grand Prix

Charouz to run for HRT in FP1

Jan Charouz completed 56 laps driving for HRT at the Young Driver Test © Sutton Images

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• Race:
• Brazilian Grand Prix

• Championship:
• FIA Formula One World Championship

• Drivers:
• Colin Kolles

• Teams:
• HRT

Jan Charouz will drive for HRT during the first Free Practice session for the Brazilian Grand Prix, replacing Tonio Liuzzi.

Charouz appeared for the team during the Young Driver Test in Abu Dhabi last week, driving the F111 on the second morning before switching to Renault on day three. His morning with HRT saw him remain in the car until he had completed over 300km of running, making him eligible for a Superlicence. Charouz thanked his sponsors for the opportunity, and admitted he hoped to not be too much slower than Daniel Ricciardo in the other car.

"It's a great feeling to be taking part in a Formula 1 free practice session," Charouz said. "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 said he had full faith in Charouz after his performance at the Yas Marina circuit.

"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," Kolles said. "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."

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