I’ve a good job and an open mind: Narain

Amidst the vrooming of engines, the smell of burning rubber and a young MC going full throttle on the loudspeakers at the fifth Speed Run 2007, India’s fastest man on wheels Narain Karthikeyan spoke to Peter Pears on how he loves his job of being a test driver at Williams, the F1 circuit and how racing in the A1 GP is keeping his competitive instincts alive.

What are your plans at the moment?

• Obviously, I’ll be continuing as a test driver for Williams.

How has this year been compared to last year?

• The testing conditions have improved a lot and hopefully, if the other teams don’t go too much ahead, we should be in a competitive position.

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What do you think of your stint in the A1 Grand Prix?

• We scored the first points for India, four points and I’d like to build on that. Hopefully we’ll see the team on the podium by the end of the year.

How is it different from F1?

• It’s very different. It’s much more of a basic car. The power also is lesser.

This is your second year at the Speed Run. Do you see any changes?

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• It’s certainly got bigger. There are a lot of illegal drag races. To have it in a controlled environment, with all the safety aspects, I think its great. The crowd today looks to be quite keen on racing. Looking at the enthusiasm here, I think you guys should build a permanent drag strip like they have in Dubai.

What’s the racing scene for youngsters today in India?

• Now you don’t have to make it to the top to get sponsors. Those in the lower rungs are also being chosen for sponsorship. And yes, Go karting is really coming on.

How’s the F1 scene post-Michael Schumacher?

• It’s become quite open and interesting. Lot of people didn’t watch F1 because Michael was so dominating, while lot watched because of his driving. He has been a great ambassador for the sport. I think there will be five or six different winners in different races through the season.

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Does it frustrate you at times when people ask why you aren’t racing?

• No, that’s the way the sport is. Actually, I have a good job and an open mind. Look at Alex Wurz, who’s been testing with Williams for the past six years. Signing up with Williams as early as September last year gave me enough time on my hands and that’s why I tried out in the A1 GP this winter. It allows you to keep in touch and any kind of racing is good for you.

How long do you think it would take before we have an Indian Grand Prix?

•n Frankly speaking, I have no idea. The subject was mooted way back in 1999 and eight years down the line nothing has happened. So your guess is good as mine.

What’s coming up next?

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• I’ll been testing in Valencia on Wednesday and will be going to South Africa after that.