Klien open to more Auto GP outings after Mugello debut

The former Jaguar, Red Bull and HRT F1 racer has a one-off deal in place with Zele Racing for this weekend, but he told AUTOSPORT at Mugello on Friday that he is open to completing the rest of the Auto GP season.

"For now, the deal is only for this weekend," said Klien. "But there is a chance to do the rest of the year.

"We'll see how the weekend goes. If it all goes well, I am happy with everything and the team is happy with me, we can consider that I will do the rest of the season, but we will decide that afterwards."

The offer from team owner Michael Zele came after the Austrian squad ended its partnership with Formula 2 champion Luciano Bacheta in the wake of last month's Silverstone round.

"Michael and I had already been in contact last year, just because we knew each other," added Klien.

"Then there was an opportunity to race here at Mugello, and I was also free, so it was a good chance to do it.

"Obviously, I follow the championship a little bit anyway, because [Narain] Karthikeyan is racing here as well.

"I was quite keen on coming back and doing some racing in single-seaters."

The 2010 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is Klien's most recent race in a single-seater, and he has never raced at Mugello before.

"I don't really have a clear idea what to expect," he said. "But it's like riding a bicycle. Once you know how to ride, it is not too difficult to get back.

"I am pretty sure by qualifying and race one I will be pretty comfortable in the car, the track and with the team - then we'll see what to expect."

REMEMBER WHEN...?

Klien got to drive Jenson Button's Honda Formula 1 car in practice for the 2007 British Grand Prix after the Briton complained of back pains.

Button had injured his back in a crash during the United States Grand Prix at Indianapolis, after contact with team-mate Rubens Barrichello.

Klien finished the session as 18th fastest.