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According to Germany’s Auto Motor und Sport, Lotus’ investor Quantum wants Nico Hulkenberg as the team’s driver for the 2014 season.
However, earlier it was reported that the team will be opting for Pastor Maldonado since the driver is financially backed by PDVSA for a fee of around EUR 41 million per year.
Team owner Gerard Lopez said that the team would have the best pairing for the future if they snatch Hulkenberg.
“With Grosjean and Hulkenberg, we would have the best driver pairing for the future,” Lopez said.
He added that the he will be spending from his own pocket till the team secures the services of a sponsor.
“The budget will not be touched (reduced). We want to finish second in the championship,” he said.
Lotus is currently in fourth place in the standings and could get a financial boost of EUR 15 million if they finish in second because of the Concorde Agreement cash.
