Thaindian News

New Delhi, Feb 13 (IANS) Indian racing driver Parthiva Sureshwaren Monday confirmed that he will return to FIA Formula 2 Championship for the third year running.

The 2012 championship will offer a Williams F1 test drive for the winner, together with GP2 tests for the second and third placed drivers.

Parthiva, who is supported by telecom provider Lycamobile, will be the only India in the season starting April after Armaan Ebrahim’s move to Indy Lights series in the United States.

“I am really happy to return to Formula Two after gaining a lot of experience in the last two seasons. I feel confident heading into this season as I have a better understanding of the car and am better prepared for it. It is an important year for me so will work hard to achieve the best possible result,” said Parthiva.

The Championship has announced a host of enhancements with most significant changes to the 2012-spec F2 car. The engineers have developed a performance upgrade package which centres on new tyres Yokohama, as well as new carbon composite brakes that will see the car lap around two seconds faster than the previous machine.

Parthiva added: “From a driver’s perspective all these enhancements will definitely improve the performance of the car. The Yokohama tyres will be a great addition and will put all drivers on a level playing field.”

Jonathan Palmer, Formula Two Chief Executive commented on Parthiva’s return: “He had some very strong performances last season, including a superb drive at Brands Hatch in race two where he made up eight places from 19th on the grid. He is certainly capable of scoring frequently and securing his maiden podium.”

The Chennai-born driver joined F2 in 2010, and after a solid start at Silverstone and Marrakech, he scored his best result of the year at Monza, finishing 10th in race two to earn his maiden points finish. He failed to score a point in the subsequent year.