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IndyCar: Chinese Driver Ho-Pin Tung moves closer to FAZZT race seat

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Khatir Soltani
Chinese driver Ho-Pin Tung has moved one stop closer to a full-time ride in the IZOD IndyCar series following an extensive, two-day test at Sebring International Raceway with the FAZZT Racing Team.

As Auto123.com told on Monday, Tung drove one of FAZZT Dallara-Hondas under the eyes of the engineering team and regular team driver Alex Tagliani. FAZZT’s primary sponsor, Bowers & Wilkins, funded the test.

(Photo: FAZZT Racing Team)

The former Renault F1 test and reserve driver completed 211 laps and 350 miles on the 1.65-mile Sebring road course and set a fast time of 53.5 seconds.

The team’s press release stated “FAZZT kicked off efforts to add to its driver lineup by signing an agreement with Luxembourg based Gravity Sport Management (owned by Renault F1 team co-owner Gerard Lopez) to pursue and secure the proper commercial partnerships necessary to ensure Ho-Pin Tung a competitive full season in 2011, was the first part of the process”.

"Our goal is to run a minimum of two cars for the 2011 IZOD IndyCar season and this test was a first step in that direction," says FAZZT COO and General Manager Rob Edwards.

"With the support of our primary sponsor Bowers & Wilkins, our team is actively seeking sponsorship for the second full-time entry for the 2011 season and beyond. Ho-Pin Tung's talent and presence in an IndyCar can reach a whole new nation of fans in China and presents significant opportunities for our sport and our partners."

The 28-year-old Tung’s planned addition to the team would undoubtedly generate worldwide attention as he works towards earning a spot among the 33 drivers on starting grid at the "Greatest Spectacle in Racing" for the centennial celebration of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and the Indianapolis 500.

"It was a good chance to get to know Ho-Pin's (Tung) talent first hand in our Indycar and he exceeded any expectations we had," said Edwards.

Khatir Soltani
Khatir Soltani
Automotive expert
  • Over 8 years experience as a car reviewer
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