Max Chilton And Rio Haryanto To Race At Carlin In 2012

As the 2012 GP2 Series looms ever closer, Carlin have announced a new partnership with the Russian F1 team, Marussia, for 2012 as well as their all important driver line-up. Max Chilton has been confirmed as staying with the Carlin team, with Indonesian driver Rio Haryanto graduating to the team from GP3.

Max Chilton has competed in two GP2 seasons’ so far, his first with Ocean Racing Technology in 2010 and last season with Carlin. After a relatively successful season last year, which consisted of three points finishes for the British driver, he is looking forward to another season in GP2.

“I’m very excited about the season ahead in GP2.” Explained the 20-year-old, “Although we didn’t get the results we’d hoped for last season, we had a very good car and I can’t wait to get back on track and build on the progress we’ve made over the winter. To be racing in Marussia livery makes the season ahead even more exciting, and as a driver I’m delighted to be associated with such a young and promising F1 team.” 

Rio Haryanto is making his graduation up the motor sport ladder, after a highly successful 2011 season racing for Marussia Manor Racing in GP3. The Indonesian driver picked up two race victories, including two podiums as well as successfully finishing all 16 races of the season without retiring. Part of the Marussia F1 Team Young Driver Programme, Haryanto could well become the first Indonesian F1 driver if he makes the big step up in the next few years.

“I am looking forward to my first year in the Series with the Marussia Carlin GP2 Team” said the 19-year-old from Solo in Central Java. “Carlin is a team that has produced many championship winning drivers over the years. The first year in GP2 will be a steep learning curve but I will be trying to learn as much as possible and aim for consistent results. I am looking forward to the challenge. I am also grateful for the continued support from Pertamina, who have been supporting my motor sport activities.”

The first pre-season test for the Series is this week, from February 28th – March 1st at the Jerez circuit. Both Max Chilton and Rio Haryanto will take to the track throughout the three days testing. 

Picture Copyright © Marussia Carlin GP2 Team