Karthikeyan to get behind the wheel for HRT at Singapore GP

With his home race slated for next month, Narain Karthikeyan will get some practice for the event as Hispania has decided to field him in the first practice session of upcoming Formula One Singapore Grand Prix.

"Karthikeyan will be back in the thick of the action as he gets behind the wheel of the HRT F111 F1 car during Friday's first free practice session at the challenging 5.073-km Marina Bay Street Circuit in Singapore -- the only night race on the Formula 1 calendar," Hispania said.

Karthikeyan had raced for Hispania in the first half of the season, with last being the European Grand Prix in Valencia in June. The Indian was replaced by Australia's Daniel Ricciardo for the rest of the season, except for the Indian Grand Prix.

"Of course it's a great feeling to be driving on a Grand Prix weekend once again," Karthikeyan said.

"The Singapore circuit will definitely be challenge as it is new to me so I'll have to get to grips with it fairly quickly. From what I know, it is a very demanding race physically, not only because of the temperatures and humidity but also being a high-speed street circuit it is extremely bumpy.

"Overall, it is a great place to return to race proceedings, and will go a long way to get me back in the rhythm for the Indian GP," he added.

HRT Team Principal Colin Kolles said that the practice session would give Karthikeyan the critical seat time before he drives at the Indian GP.

"It is great to have Narain back in the car as it will give him critical seat time before he drives at the Indian GP. He is the best driver to come out of the region and is undoubtedly extremely talented as he has proved through his progress this season."