Karun Chandhok honoured to set first timed lap in India

The Indian replaced Heikki Kovalainen in this morning's session, finishing in 19th position, over 1.6 seconds behind team-mate Jarno Trulli, the man who was expected to make room for Chandhok to race at home.

Although Chandhok did not get the chance to race in the end, he was still delighted to be driving in front of his home crowd.

"It felt great to finally be able to drive an F1 car here at the Buddh International Circuit, and it was a real honour to be the first car to set a timed lap in front of the fans," said Chandhok.

"I want to thank the team for giving me that chance, and everyone at the Jaypee Group and all the people involved in helping create the first ever Indian Grand Prix for doing such a great job on the whole event. In the car I was pretty pleased with how it went today.

"We completed most of the morning programme and without the yellow flags at the end of the session I'm pretty sure there was another second in hand on my final lap time.

"The track itself is really enjoyable to drive, particularly the middle section which is very quick, and as it evolves and the times keep coming down I think we'll see some very good racing here all weekend."