Klien to Discuss Potential Friday Role with HRT F1?

Last week, we had reported to you that Hispania Racing's team boss Colin Kolles was contemplating the signing of an experienced driver to develop the Dallara-built car through the Friday sessions of the 2010 F1 season. Considering that both the team's drivers – Bruno Senna and Karun Chandhok – are rookies, a driver who has been in the series for some time could provide the mechanics with a better input on how to develop the car into a stronger challenger.

Writing on his official website, former BMW Sauber test driver Christian Klien admitted that he is not ready to commit to a full-time deal with Peugeot for a race seat in the Le Mans Series, as he will continue to follow his dream of racing in F1. The Austrian's name was actually in the rumor mill for a testing spot with HRT F1, and he admitted he'll travel to China this week for some discussions on a future role in the series.

“Right after the (Peugeot) test I fly to Shanghai to keep in touch with the teams. Sometimes it can turn around pretty quickly as we have seen. And being at the race means taking a shortcut, which makes things easier sometimes,” said Klien on his official website, ahead of this weekend's Chinese Grand Prix in Shanghai.

Klien also confirmed “involvement in Formula One negotiations,” which is why he decided to put his Peugeot discussions to a hold in recent weeks. The Austrian driver has tried endlessly to secure an F1 spot the past winter, but the lack of sponsorship made him unattractive to the new teams coming into the series.

Another highly-rated driver linked with a testing role with HRT F1 – a role that will be paid by Kolles – is Giancarlo Fisichella. The Roman driver finished his business in F1 last year and is now an official test/reserve driver for Ferrari, while also starting a brand new career in sports car racing.