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Bruno Senna May Lose F1 Seat to Yamamoto

Brazilian driver Bruno Senna is reportedly one step outside the Hispania Racing F1 boat following the Turkish Grand Prix. According to the recent rumors in the paddock, his place in the under-performing HRT F1 car may be taken by recently-signed test driver Sakon Yamamoto.

Curiously enough, the reports appeared after the Brazilian driver recorded the best qualifying performance ever for HRT F1 in Turkey, outperforming a rival car for the first time this season. He started the Turkish GP from 22nd spot, scoring a better lap time than Virgin Racing's Lucas di Grassi and teammate Karun Chandhok.

Although he didn't finish the race, he is still regarded as a solid young driver inside the paddock, which could only mean that his potential replacement at HRT F1 is money related. As you all know, neither Senna nor Chandhok are being paid this season, each being selected by the team for its F1 lineup for sponsorship reasons.

Additionally, it seems Senna has also shown some frustration over his first experience in Formula One, as he admits driving for the Spanish team makes it harder for him to live up to the image of his 3-time world champion of an uncle.

There is a fine line between explaining and moaning. It is very difficult but, in the right place, at the right team and with the right car, I can be world champion,” said Senna.

The former GP2 Series runner-up is not the only one in danger of losing his seat in the 2010 F1 roster, as veteran driver Pedro de la Rosa has once again stepped into the rumor mill in recent days. According to Italian reports, GP2 racer Luca Filippi is close to inking a deal with the fund-seeking BMW Sauber Ferrari. The Italian is expected to make his F1 debut with the team in Valencia.
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