Villa eyes Brazil GP debut in Liuzzi’s seat
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| Javier Villa |
(GMM) A lack of sponsorship looks to have dented a rookie Spaniard's chances of joining the F1 grid.
Earlier this year it was rumored Vitantonio Liuzzi could lose his HRT seat as the Spanish team eyes a place for Javier Villa.
The 23-year-old, who drives a BMW in the world touring car championship, was reportedly targeted for a prominent role by the team's new owner Thesan Capital.
"Yes, it's all true," he said in July.
But it appears that Villa's hopes have now dimmed.
"They wanted to make a big Spanish project, based in Spain, drivers of our country, sponsorships from here," he told the Asturias TV channel TPA.
"I think one of the biggest problems has been the Spanish sponsorships. The only thing is to wait for how things unfold in the coming months.
"If there is no sponsor, probably what the driver who does come can provide is very important," added Villa.
07/18/11 (GMM) Vitantonio Liuzzi could lose his seat at HRT later in 2011 as the Spanish team eyes a place for Javier Villa.
23-year-old Spaniard Villa, who drives a BMW in the world touring car championship, has reportedly been targeted for a prominent role in 2012 by Hispania's new owner Thesan Capital.
"Yes, it's all true," he responded to the speculation when asked by Italiaracing.
"I have a good chance to debut in F1 with Hispania."
The Italian report said Villa could start off with a Friday practice driving role in the very near future before he makes his grand prix debut in Liuzzi's place in Brazil in late November.
"F1 is a great and definitely unexpected opportunity," said Villa's advisor Jose Ramon Galan. "We'll see how the situation evolves."