Pedro de la Rosa expects to remain with HRT for 2013

Pedro de la Rosa has explained how he expects to remain a HRT driver next season, as his first season with the Spanish outfit draws to a conclusion. The 41-year-old Spaniard has only recently completed his 100th race in the sport, and is excited with the possibilities at the ever progressing Madrid-based outfit.

HRT have become renowned for changing their driving line-up after each season, with rumors currently circulating within the paddock that reserve driver Dani Clos could receive a promotion within the team and race alongside fellow countryman de la Rosa next season. Clos has partaken in several Friday practice sessions for the team this season, each time in place of Indian driver Narain Karthikeyan.

Although HRT endured a tough start to the 2012 season, initially failing to qualify for the season-opener in Australia, it’s undeniable that the team has greatly progressed throughout the season. Admittedly they have remained at the back of the pack, unable to progress to Q2 in qualifying and unable to score points during the race, but the Spanish outfit have remained positive this season, despite their lack of pace in comparison to midfield teams such as Force India and Williams.

“I’ll stay here with HRT next year,” explained Pedro de la Rosa to Motorsport Total, as he prepares for this weekend’s Singapore Grand Prix. “Last year I signed a two-year contract - otherwise it wouldn’t have made any sense. When I joined the team I wanted a two-year deal; that was one of my basic terms because I saw it as a long-term project and I am sure that next year will be better.”

If Pedro de la Rosa is joined next season by fellow countryman Dani Clos, this would leave Indian driver Narain Karthikeyan once again without a drive in Formula 1. Although the 35-year-old has also finished consistently this season, it’s unquestionable that he has remained the number two driver within the team behind Pedro de la Rosa.

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