Mallya wants the best possible drivers for Spyker

The owner of Spyker, Vijay Mallya, indicated that the 2008 driver lineup for the team would not be decided by the heart. Mallya insists that he will only recruit drivers who can add value to the team, making it stronger and, above all, more competitive.

The Indian businessman completed the change of ownership of the Dutch team with the Dutch Mole family last month.

A seat is available within the team for the 2008 championship, and speculation is rife about Adrian Sutil’s future partner next season.

Indian drivers such as Narain Karthikeyan and Karun Chandhok have been mentioned, as well as Ralf Schumacher who officially parted ways with Toyota. Mallya is a friend of the German driver, but he explained that sympathy and nationality will not be decisive factors.

“A driver lineup is not something that should be decided by the heart but by the brain. I want drivers who can deliver and be worthy of their place within the team,” explained Mallya.

“I am often asked if we will have an Indian driver and my answer is: if I can find one who is ready, yes. But only under the parameters I mentioned earlier,” he added.

“The drivers represent a crucial part of the team, so the driver lineup is a serious matter and not a popularity contest,” concluded the Indian owner.