Karthikeyan Jordan test notes

Narain Karthikeyan was interviewed after his drive in the EJ11 on Tuesday.

How did the testing opportunity arise with Jordan Grand Prix? This test was planned after my F3 success in Macau and Korea last year.

How do you feel having tested the Jordan Honda EJ11, in comparison to your previous test with Jaguar Racing? I knew what to expect when I got in the car this morning and having driven the Jordan Honda EJ11 for a few hours I think it is very driveable. Unfortunately with the damp weather conditions today, the track is very slippery so I'm being a bit cautious as I don't want to damage the car. I completed 21 laps this morning so it would be good to put in the same amount of running this afternoon.

How have you found the EJ11's handling? The car is very driveable, but this is the first time I have driven an F1 car in these slippery conditions. The brakes are incredible - even in the wet conditions you can brake so late. You think that you could slide off the track but the car just stops. The traction control and all the new electronic systems make it very good to drive.

How do you feel you are regarded on the F1 circuit? There's only one Indian at this level of motor sport and that's me, but everybody has been very welcoming. As long as I do a good job I can hope to have a chance in F1. There is a lot of pressure on me to do well from my Indian fans as I'm India's only driver. They expect you to win every race but possibly don't realise how complicated motor sport can be. I guess this is because there have not been any Indian drivers before me so everybody is learning about the sport. Expectations in India are high and I get a lot of coverage, but you can't let that affect you. My priority is to drive the car to the best of my abilities.

-Jordan Grand Prix-