Narain Karthikeyan out Daniel Ricciardo In

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He may be the fastest Indian on the track and the only Indian to score a F1 point but Narain Karthikeyan has been replaced with reserve driver of Toro Rosso for Hispania Racing - Daniel Ricciardo - ahead of the British Grand Prix, according to reports in the Indian press and the BBC.

In what is being speculated as a major blow to Indian fans who were hoping to see Karthikeyan burn rubber in the Indian Grand Prix to take place in Greater Noida late in October, the Australian Ricciardo's accession to the race after participating in every morning practice session of his team this season may be more permanent than just the race at the Silverstone circuit.

The British press has confirmed that a release was sent by Hispania Racing stating that Ricciardo will race for the team in the upcoming race making him the second Australian to participate after Red Bull's Mark Webber. He will represent the team along with Vitantonio Liuzzi.

“It’s a dream come true for me - for the first time on an F1 starting grid!” said Ricciardo of his HRT drive. “I had to pinch myself a couple of times to be sure that it’s real. I’m excited and can hardly wait to drive at Silverstone. It’s a new challenge, a new experience, a new team, but I’m ready and will give of my best in any event.", Ricciardo was quoted.

“This agreement is a reward for all the hard work Hispania Racing has shown since we started in Formula One last year,” commented HRT Chairman Jose Ramon Carabante. “We’re proud that the Formula One world champion team has trusted us in their effort of developing their drivers. Let’s hope that this is just the start of a fruitful relationship.”

HRT team principal Colin Kolles added: “I’m happy to welcome Daniel to the team; I’m glad the team managed to conclude this deal together with Dr Helmut Marko who deserves my personal respect."