Chilton on course for next level

MAX Chilton finished both races at the futuristic Yas Marina circuit in Abu Dhabi under the watchful eyes of Formula One chiefs.

The 18-year-old finished outside the points in both races, but did enough to prove he has the pace and ability to be a front-runner in the future.

The GP2 Asia Series has established itself as a strong championship and natural path to Formula One. Both of its champions have landed drives in F1 (Romain Grosjean with Renault and Kamui Kobayashi with Toyota) and Chilton hopes to follow in their footsteps.

Reigate ace Chilton was one of 14 rookies displaying their driving skills at the opening rounds of the Asian Winter Series, qualifying his Barwa Addax car 21st on the 24-strong grid.

He was penalised right at the start for a jump start, the team claiming he moved "ever so slightly" while moving the clutch.

"He gained no advantage whatsoever and was forced to the back of the field," the team added.

"Later in the race he fought his way to 16th but was handed another penalty for speeding in the pit lane.

"He showed a great sense of determination and confirmed his progress in adverse conditions, setting a more than acceptable race rhythm," the team revealed. Chilton finished 16th.

His team-mate Luiz Razia was forced to retire after being involved in a collision.

The second race - a sprint race - saw Chilton finish without too many incidents as he accumulated more laps. Starting among the back markers in such a short race is difficult for such a young driver making the grade to show his true worth.

He improved on his times, finishing 17th, and the team expect him to be turning in impressive times and results in the next races. Raza finished 11th.

The series returns to the Yas Marina circuit for the next rounds in February.

Before that Chilton will return to Formula Three with Carlin Motorsport for whom he won twice at the end of last season, to contest the prestigious Macau Grand Prix.