02/11/2006
NEWS STORY
With the revision of a number of sporting regulations this week by the A1GP World Cup of Motorsport for the remainder of the 2006/07 season, rules now allow Fairuz Fauzy to drive for A1 Team Malaysia in the two 25 minute practice sessions at the start of each A1GP race weekend.
The new regulations allow drivers under the age of 28 who competed in no more than six A1GP races last season to take part in the sessions.
Fauzy drove in four races in the Series inaugural season, so will be able to return to A1GP competition and support the team with valuable feedback from the extra track time gained by the team. In the first two race weekends the Malaysian team did not have a suitably qualified driver to participate in the Friday morning sessions and were disadvantaged in their race preparations. The rule revisions will bring a return to the level playing field that is a key feature of A1GP.
Jack Cunningham, Chief Executive of A1 Team Malaysia says of the news, "This rule change is very welcome - being able to run Fairuz in the Friday morning sessions will definitely help us to keep performing at the highest level. It's great to have him back in the driving seat.”
Fauzy says of his return to A1GP, "I've been concentrating on my GP2 season up until this point, so it's a timely announcement for me. I can dovetail GP2 testing with A1GP Friday practice sessions and together these will keep me busy through the winter.
"It's a privilege to be able to be back representing my country and supporting the team. Alex has had a great start to the season with his two wins, so if I can help the team to maintain this performance level, I'll be very proud.
"In addition, with our home race taking place later this month it means that I'll be able to drive in front of all the local fans, which will be a great honour for me.”
A1GP racing resumes in just over one weeks time with the first street race of the season, a new event for the Series to be held in Beijing, China. A1 Team Malaysia will arrive in the Asian city fresh from back-to-back wins in Brno with driver Alex Yoong taking victory in both the Sprint and Feature races.