Date:29/09/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/09/29/stories/2006092905052200.htm

Sport - Racing : Motor

Narain extends deal with Williams

Sports Reporter

Narain Karthikeyan.

COIMBATORE: India's Formula One driver Narain Karthikeyan has extended his relationship with Williams for another year. The F-1 team also confirmed his re-appointment as the official test driver for the season ahead.

Narain, who joined the squad in 2006, will add a vital element of continuity to the team's test and development programmes as Williams F-1 forms a new technical alliance with Toyota in 2007.

"I'm thrilled that the team has shown faith in me. Of course, like any other driver, I would have loved to compete, but I would rather test with a good team than accept a race seat that offered no real potential. Being a test driver for a top team is of great benefit to a driver's career," Narain said.

"Sir Frank Williams (the team's principal) always believed that I had the speed. I'm going to repay his faith. It's going to be a busy season. Williams will be with new engine partners. I have worked with Toyota and the faces will be familiar. So, it's going to work well on both fronts," he said.

"Williams is a team that exists only to race and I hope that whatever I can contribute will be valued by the team. I will put in every possible effort to help the team return to its winning ways they so richly deserve," he added.

"The decision is very popular within the team because he is hard-working and capable in the car. It is also significant that Narain carries with him India's growing interest in F-1, which is very exciting," said Williams.

Narain also thanked his long-term supporters, the Tata group and Bharat Petroleum for sticking with him through the highs and lows in his career.