Stefano Coletti to race Romeo Ferraris Alfa Romeo

Romeo Ferraris has confirmed Stefano Coletti as its first driver for the inaugural PURE ETCR season, which is due to begin in June.

The 31-year-old will drive one of the new Alfa Romeo Giulia ETCRs being built up by the team and will get the chance to sample the car for the first time next week at Vallelunga in what will be its on-track debut.

The former GP2 racer spent last year competing in the International GT Open series.

“I was very happy being called up for the season by Romeo Ferraris,” he said. “The trust placed in me, despite having almost no experience with touring cars, makes me happy and gives me the motivation to do my best and repay the team for this opportunity.

“I thank Michela Cerruti and Mario Ferraris, because this kind of opportunity rarely comes in life. To be able to work closely with a constructor in the development of a new car is for sure a challenge, but we are not afraid and are actually boosted to go for great results. We are excited to take the track!”

Michela Cerruti, Romeo Ferraris operations manager, said she was delighted to welcome Coletti into the team.

“We will be involved in PURE ETCR in 2021 as a full constructor, rather than in a customer racing position like in the past, and this entails greater responsibilities,” he said. “The choice of drivers is never trivial and opting for Stefano is a very motivating move as we embark together on this new journey.

“He is a fast driver, very determined and still young in the world of tin-top car racing. This electric project is new for everybody and represents a great opportunity for all the players involved.”