Formula Renault 3.5
Comtec Racing has today finalised its 2012 driver line-up with confirmation that Vittorio Ghirelli, former Italian Open Masters Karting Champion and GP3 driver, will join teammate, Nick Yelloly, for the 2012 Formula Renault 3.5 Series.
Vittorio, who will enter the series as a Rookie, impressed everyone during 2011 Winter Testing. Despite being only 17 years old, he proved that he has a mature approach to driving, good pace and is dedicated.
Both drivers will be taking part in the first test at Paul Ricard (13-15th March 2012).
Comtec Racing Team Manager, John Barnett said:
We are happy to have Vittorio on board. Although Vittorio is only 17, he impressed the team with his speed, approach and maturity during winter testing.
Vittorio comes with a very experienced driver coaching package lead by Andy Soucek – a successful former Formula Renault 3.5 Series and F1 test driver – who will help to develop his core driver skills during the season.
It will be a tough season this year, but I believe the two drivers will give Comtec a springboard to return us to the top.
On his signing Vittorio Ghirelli said:
“I'm very happy to be joining Comtec Racing in the Formula Renault 3.5 Series. It’s a very professional team. The people are very serious about racing. The engineers are good and I think if we concentrate our efforts as a whole, we can do a very good job.”
Interview with Vittorio Ghirelli
How did your first Formula Renault 3.5 Series Winter Test Go?
“I felt very confident with the car, especially Comtec’s car, which is why I wanted to be part of this team. I felt more feedback from their car and the team made me feel very comfortable.”
What are you’re expectations for this year?
“Obviously, every driver has the objective of winning the Championship, but that’s a lot to expect, especially given the high caliber of drivers this year, which include some Formula One test drivers and a lot of good European drivers. The level of competition is very, very, high, but I think we can do well. We just have to concentrate on doing the best we can at every race meeting and fight for the rookie honours.”
Are you looking forward to the first shakedown at Paul Ricard?
“Yes, I have been training hard these past few months physically and mentally. I’m quite determined in training and as a whole, so I’m looking forward to it a lot. I want to do well straight away and do a good job.”
Are you looking forward to trying out the new Car?
“Yes, definitely, seeing it today it looks very good. It’s a good development from the old car so I’m quite excited to see how it will be out on track.”
Comtec Racing press release