Formula One news

Jani to test simulator for Force India

Force India team owner Vijay Mallya has revealed that Neel Jani will soon be able to undergo an attempt in a Formula One simulator. Indian Karun Chandhok is already listed as one candidate for an attempt and a possible test driver for the team next year.

With Vitantonio Liuzzi confirmed to race alongside Adrian Sutil until the end of the season, F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone spoke out last week of his desire to see an Indian driver in the car. As well as Chandhok, however, Kingfisher owner Mallya has also invited pit Swiss-born Jani, who is half Indian, for an examination.

"I have been very clear in my mind," Mallya explained to Reuters. "I'm not a big team. I'm a very small team, probably with the tiniest budget. I need to have people who can help deliver my objectives, I can't afford any luxuries.

Jani was the test and Friday driver for Toro Rosso in 2006

"Karun is like a son to me. I have known him from when he was a little boy in shorts. If I can give him a chance, I'd be delighted, but he has to prove that he is also capable; so I've told him I'll put him in the McLaren driver simulator and let me see what you do - and, based on that, we'll talk further." Force India's access to the McLaren simulator comes through the team's link of running Mercedes engines.

Mallya went on to mention Jani, who helped to clinch A1 Team Switzerland's title during the 2007-08 A1 Grand Prix season. "He and his dad have been after me for the last one and a half years and he came to see me again," Mallya continued. "The guy is saying 'give me a chance'; I can't deny him a chance in the simulator so, yes, he will also go in."

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