He announced the news on Twitter Thursday, saying: “Back in F1 in 2011. Signed a deal to race for HRT. I’ve always maintained that my time in F1 was not over & now making good on that promise.”
Karthikeyan — who turns 34 in two weeks — has the support of the mighty Tata Group, which is also involved with Ferrari, and is clearly keen on having a major presence at the first Indian GP in October.
Karthikeyan’s arrival at HRT is logical given his long relationship with team boss Colin Kolles, who had a history of maintaining contacts with drivers he’s employed over the years.
In 2005, Karthikeyan drove for Kolles at the Jordan team in its first season under Midland ownership, finishing fourth in the US GP after the Michelin runners pulled out. He has since driven for Kolles at Le Mans.