They took the gamble in 2001, when India's biggest   
Click here for bigger image
corporate entity decided to back a ‘dark horse’ called Narain Karthikeyan. Now they are gearing to reap the rewards. The Tata Group's logo has been assigned premium positions (refer diagram pics) on the Team Jordan automobiles that will race in the 2005 Formula One Grand Prix. The Tata Group's logo will also find prominence on the helmets and the racing gear of the two drivers: Narain Karthikeyan and Tiago Monteiro.

The $14.2 billion Tata group has also been classified as the "Official Sponsor" of Team Jordan. The Jordan Car will be unveiled on 25 February in Russia. The Formula One 2005 calendar flags off with the Australian Grand Prix on 6 March.  
 

 
Click here for bigger image
This also marks the beginning of a new chapter in the group's endeavor to cultivate a global brand for itself; as F1 is a huge platform, globally. According to Romit Chaterji, vice president, corporate affairs, Tata Services Ltd, the group has a three dimensional approach towards leveraging the opportunity. Says Chaterji, "Within international markets it gives us two options. One, the world over, it starts creating the Tata name. Secondly, the magnitude of the whole F1 platform allows an opportunity which enables us to bring customers, business associates and key clients to the ring and offers excellent networking opportunities."

 
Click here for bigger image
According to Chaterji, "In India, people feel good about the Tatas. And, Narain being the first Indian to drive at the F1 will definitely snap in a sense of pride and jubilation. Consequently, we will try and capitalize on this as much as possible through events, advertising and other ground activities."

 
 
Click here for bigger image
Karthikeyan, supported by the Tata Group, BPCL and some other leading business houses, has demonstrated consistent performance in the Nissan World series recording wins in Magny Cours, France and Valencia, Spain, which are Formula one circuits.

Karthikeyan has earlier also test-driven for Formula One teams of Jordan, Jaguar and Minardi and has impressed one and all with his speed and determination to compete at the highest level.
 
Formula One team Jordan specifics:

- Team: Jordan
- Formed in: 1991
- Team Principal: Alex Schneider / Eddie Jordan / Trevor ........................Carlin
- Drivers: Narain Karthikeyan / Tiago Monteiro
- Chassis: Jordan EJ15
- Engine: Toyota
- Tyres: Bridgestone