Chandhok may switch team for 2012 ’Friday’ role

Karun Chandhok will not necessarily reprise his role as Team Lotus’ reserve and occasional ’Friday’ practice driver in 2012.

The Indian has acknowledged that, after a full season in the role this year, it is unlikely he will step into a race seat ahead of 2012.

"It’s very difficult to secure a seat in F1 unless you have substantial financial backing," he told the Times of India.

It has been expected that Chandhok, 27, will therefore stay in his current role as Team Lotus becomes Caterham.

"Another year as the reserve driver is not something that I want to do although I am still in talks with a couple of F1 teams for that role," he said.

Chandhok also revealed that he is willing to step away from F1 in order to return to racing in 2012.

"The best option for me will be to combine some Friday test sessions in F1 with the world endurance championship, which is making a return on the FIA calendar next year," he said.

"I am in talks with 3-4 teams and I hope to finalise it by the middle of next month."