Clos to perfect for HRT

HRT are to make F1 history this Friday as two Spanish drivers will be behind the wheel of the Spanish team's cars at their home grand prix.

Reserve Dani Clos is to take part in his debut practice session at the Circuit de Catalunya alongside Pedro de la Rosa, both of whom are from Barcelona.

Clos, 23, who replaces Narain Karthikeyan in the first of the day's two 90-minute outings, said: "I'm delighted to have the opportunity.

"It's something I've fought for all my life - to make my debut in Formula One and, above all, to be able to do it at the Circuit de Catalunya which is something very special for me.

"I'm extremely lucky to be able to do it with a Spanish team, alongside another Spanish driver who I admire and at home. I can't ask for more.

"It's the ideal situation and I'm proud to be where I am with the people who have always been with me and still are."

Team principal Luis Perez-Sala feels Clos will do the team proud as he said: "Dani is a great driver and I have no doubt that he will do a good job.

"This debut also represents another step forward in our desire for HRT to serve as a platform for young drivers to make it into F1."