India’s second racer to compete in a Formula 1 Championship, Karun Chandhok was with Mahindra Racing last season, where he was their driver for inaugural Formula E Championship. The Indian racer finished 17th in the FIA Formula E Championship with 18 points while his Brazilian teammate Bruno Senna finished in 10th place with 40 points.
Karun Chandhok in his Mahindra Racing suit earlier this year in London.
The team has now decided to end contract with Karun Chandhok following the dismal performance. The news will be formally announced when Mahindra Racing reveals a brand new lineup for Season 2 on August 10, 2015, This is also the opening day of pre season testing to be held at Dinington Park.
Chandhok had earlier aimed at a top 3 spot prior to the start of the season but could only muster 8th place out of 10 in team standings while his Brazilian partner also outperformed him during the season. While Chandhok’s performance was way below expectations with 18 points, it was championship winner, Nelson Piquet Jr. who amassed a total of 144 points in comparison.
The two Mahindra Racing drivers, Karun in front while Senna behind him.
Besides parting ways from Karun Chandhok, Mahindra Racing has also snapped ties with Carlin Racing which conducted team operations at the inaugural Formula E season and replaced by Spanish Campos Racing. Initial tests have been completed and new Mahindra M2ELECTRO Formula E contender will be announced. Chandhok, 31, has confirmed that he will be stepping away and wishes to spend the next few months refocusing on various other options other projects.