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Chandhok plays down test's significance

ESPNF1 Staff
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Karun Chandhok: "Right now I am here to do a test drive in one of the next three days. The deal is later and the rest comes way later." © Sutton Images
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Karun Chandhok insists his test with Lotus this week will not guarantee him a reserve driver role with the team.

Chandhok made an appearance in Lotus team clothing at the Valencia test but Tony Fernandes said he was simply there as a guest. The Indian will be in the Jerez paddock this week and will even get a day behind the wheel of the T128.

However, Chandhok said that no long-term contract has been agreed.

"There are lot of 'ifs' in it," he told the Times of India. "Right now I am here to do a test drive in one of the next three days. The deal is later and the rest comes way later."

It is believed Chandhok will drive on either Thursday or Friday. The Jerez test also runs over the weekend.

"It has been months since I last drove an F1 car and I am very excited to be back in the elite club," he added. "I am sure I can add value to the team and its development programme. Tony (Fernandes) and Mike Gascoyne understand the value I can bring to the team as a test driver. The final deal is yet to be finalised but things look bright at this point."

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