HRT Confirm Ma Qing Hua For United States Grand Prix Practice One

HRT have confirmed that development driver Ma Qing Hua will get his fifth outing for the team during the opening practice session ahead of the United States Grand Prix, once again replacing Narain Karthikeyan. This comes amid strong speculation linking the Chinese driver to a full-time drive with the team for 2013, should they find a buyer.

Ma Qing Hua became the first Chinese-born driver to compete in an official Formula 1 event during practice one for the Italian Grand Prix back in September, partnering Pedro de la Rosa within the team. Earlier in the season, the team’s reserve driver Dani Clos also replaced Narain Karthikeyan during opening practice sessions at numerous race weekends. Other teams have also used this ability to run other drivers during practice one, including Williams, Force India and Caterham.

“It’s fantastic to be able to step back into the car for a free practice session and to do so at a new circuit for every team and driver makes it even more special and fun.” Enthused Ma Qing Hua, “Being the first out on track to help the team is a great responsibility and I want to thank them again for the opportunity they’re giving me. Little by little I’m racking up more miles and gaining the necessary experience to grow as a driver, and the continuity I’m getting is also important to help my confidence.”

As has been the case for the majority of the season, Narain Karthikeyan will return to his driving duties within the team for the second practice session later in the day. This could well put the Indian driver at a slight disadvantage for the remainder of the race weekend, as he’ll still be learning the new circuit during practice two whereas the majority of his competitors will already have 90 minutes of track knowledge under their belts.

Picture Copyright © HRT F1 Team