HRT must lead its development

Looking at the performances of the young Hispania Racing Team, it is difficult to believe that Colin Kolles' team is running the most expensive F1 on the grid, and even in the history of the sport. Formula 1. " Do you realize that you made the most expensive F1 in history? » asked Bernie Ecclestone regarding Gianpaolo Dallara, as AUTOhebdo points out this week. “ I know, replied the Italian industrialist during a telephone conversation. I set a high price thinking that Campos (former owner) would negotiate it but I received the signed quote the next day without an erasure? »

In addition to running an F1 at a high price, HRT has the impression of having been fooled in establishing this partnership since it is the Italian manufacturer which owns the technical file of the car. Thus, the development essential to improving the performance of the Spanish team's car is only possible with the collaboration of Dallara, by collecting this technical file or by working with the Italian firm.

« Almost everything has to be redone, and quickly, says Geoff Willis, consultant for HRT. But the technical file for this car is in the hands of Dallara. Should we start from scratch or continue what has been done? We have to decide very quickly, with or without Dallara. Too bad, it’s a great challenge, for us as for him. But is he a trader? »

However, HRT got its first reason for satisfaction last weekend, seeing Karun Chandhok reach the end of the Malaysian Grand Prix.