autoevolution
 

Bruno Senna Turns Down DTM Drive, Eyes F1 Move

Bruno Senna confirmed he has turned down Mercedes Benz' offer to join the German car maker in the DTM series. Although the F1 season has already started, Senna insisted his goal for 2009 remains making his debut in the Great Circle. According to the Brazilian driver, his chances of making the F1 roster this season should not be written off.

“Formula one is the goal, which is subordinate to everything else this year,” said Senna.

Senna argued his decision to turn down Mercedes' offer by the fact that motorsport director Norbert Haug did not guarantee him an F1 spot with either McLaren Mercedes or Force India (Mercedes' engine partners in F1) for 2010. Under the circumstances, driving in the German series would have proven useless, especially since Senna is not going for DTM glory for the moment.

In addition, the 2008 GP2 Series runner-up revealed he was given a valuable advice from F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone not to commit too strongly to other racing series. According to German news agency SID, Senna confirmed “Bernie (Ecclestone) told me that I should not too tightly commit myself (outside of F1)”.

After the first 3 races of the season, several drivers who were expected to perform well have disappointed. Giancarlo Fisichella, Kazuki Nakajima, Sebastien Bourdais and Nelson Piquet have all failed to making a good impression this season and are now under a lot of pressure to step up their game.

Senna is also hoping to renew his relationship with Brawn GP, with whom he almost signed a deal before the 2009 season. If the Brazilian will not sign an arrangement with another team through the course of this season, he is expected to replace countryman Rubens Barrichello at the Brackley-based team starting 2010.
If you liked the article, please follow us:  Google News icon Google News Youtube Instagram X (Twitter)
 

Would you like AUTOEVOLUTION to send you notifications?

You will only receive our top stories