Fabrizio Giovanardi re-signs with Vauxhall

Fabrizio Giovanardi has re-signed with Vauxhall’s VX Racing team for the 2008 Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship – regardless of whether or not he wins the title at Thruxton this Sunday (14 October). Italian ace Giovanardi will arrive at Thruxton trailing SEAT rival Jason Plato by nine points with a maximum of 52 on offer.

Giovanardi said: “I haven’t any pressure on me because I have signed. But that does not give me any different approach to the race. I come to Thruxton to try and win for me, for Vauxhall and for the team.

“It’s going to be great for the fans because we’re so close. A small mistake could make the difference so tension is quite high. I hope the weather will be quite good. Rain could create some big questions.”

Giovanardi has been the driving force behind Vauxhall’s re-emergence as a major title threat in 2007. He joined the UK make in 2006 after winning seven overseas touring car titles – including the European crown – and spent much of his debut season learning the British circuits, although still won twice, memorably giving Vauxhall its 100th BTCC race victory.

In 2007 he has won eight times – more than any other driver – in Vauxhall’s new Vectra model.

VX Racing brand manager Stuart Harris said: “Fabrizio has been instrumental in developing the Vauxhall Vectra into the race-winning car it is today. That has given us great success this year, not least the fact that we are leading the Manufacturers’ championship.

“The Thruxton weekend is going to be nerve-racking. There’s really nothing in it, but I’m confident the team is on form and I’m looking forward to returning to winning ways.”