
Monza,
Italy, September 15th 2008: Following his impressive
second season in the GP2 Series, Formula 1's official feeder
formula, India's Karun Chandhok picked up the
award for the "best driving style"
at a glittering ceremony at the Sporting Club Monza in Italy
on Sunday evening.
The 24-year-old from Chennai, who is backed by Red Bull,
Punj Lloyd, JK Tyre, Amaron, ICSA Logistics and Sidvin,
ended the 20-race season in the top 10 in points. His year was
highlighted by victory at Hockenheim in Germany, as well as
podiums at classic grand prix venues Monaco and Silverstone
for his iSport International team.
"Overall,
it's been a positive season. I am very pleased with the progress
I have made this year,"
said Chandhok. "Winning
my second GP2 race was a big highlight, and having been a regular
front runner this year has put me in a good position in the
que of drivers trying to break into Formula 1.
"To
win the award for the 'best driving style' is a fantastic way
to end the season, and one I feel really proud of. It was the
only award that was voted for by the fans of the championship
on the GP2 website which makes it more special."
"Looking
back, I'm a bit frustrated that the second half of the season
didn't deliver as much as it promised points-wise, and our terrible
luck on Sundays, in the sprint races, really hurt my points
total. In the middle of the year in Budapest we were right in
the fight for the top 5, but since then our luck changed and
7 non-scores put me on the back foot. It's particularly frustrating
since 5 of those non-scores were out of my control but such
is life. I learnt a lot this year and will carry that into next
season."