F1: Karun Chandhok set for October Hispania return

Karun Chandhok could return to the cockpit of a Hispania Racing car for the final races of the season after being replaced by Sakon Yamamoto.

Chandhok’s last race for the troubled team came at Silverstone as Yamamoto replaced Bruno Senna – and the Indian has not featured since.

It is all but confirmed that Chandhok will miss Monza, Singapore, Suzuka, and Yeongam, leaving just Interlagos and Yas Marina races.

Despite not racing for the team, Chandhok has not shied away from F1, taking up a regular commentary position with the BBC, and he will also have the honour of driving the first Formula 1 car around the new Yeongam circuit ahead of the Korean Grand Prix next week as he gets behind the wheel of a Red Bull.

Hispania have refused to discuss speculation over its driver selection for the rest of the season, but have four drivers to choose from, with hints earlier in the season that former Jaguar and Red Bull driver Christian Klien could also feature at some point.

“The reasons seem fairly obvious, but at the end of the day, the team has its reasons, financial or circumstantial,” said Chandhok.

“I think I will do one or two races before the end of the year, but honestly, our focus has now switched to 2011. Over the summer break we spent time discussing options and I’m quite optimistic. We’re looking in good shape for 2011.”

Chandhok has recently been linked with a move to Force India for 2011 if Adrian Sutil moves to Renault, but he dismissed the speculation, saying there is no racing seat available.