It's game-on this weekend in the final round of the Formula Three Euro Series, as long-time championship leader Paul di Resta and pretender to the crown Sebastien Vettel go head-to-head for the honour of lifting one of the most prestigious F3 trophies in the world.

The series has gained significantly in prestige since Lewis Hamilton's triumph last year, with the young Brit now a sure-fire grand prix star of the future. Scot di Resta is clearly hoping to follow in the McLaren protégé's footsteps, while his German rival has already had a taste of the Formula One highlife as BMW's third driver in the last five races of the 2006 campaign, impressing so much he will retain the role in 2007.

Although di Resta holds a handy 15-point lead going into the last two races at Hockenheim courtesy of five victories to his rival's four, it is Vettel who has the better record at the German Grand Prix venue. The 19-year-old triumphed there in the season-opener back in April, and he will clearly be hoping to give his home fans something extra-special to cheer about this weekend too.

“Quite obviously I want to win both rounds of the season finale,” Vettel stated positively, shrugging off the disappointment of two lowly ninth-placed finishes last time out at Le Mans. “I'm not focusing on the title any longer as I haven't got the chance of winning it by own means. I'll just give my very best and then we have to wait and see.

“The Hockenheim set-up always represents a compromise between the fast sections and the slower 'Motodrom'. When it comes to the race itself, you usually opt for a set-up allowing for a higher top speed, resulting in a better overtaking performance.

“It's my home track as well. My hometown, Heppenheim, is located just 30 minutes away and I'm going to spend the nights at home.”

Elsewhere, Prema Powerteam driver Paolo Nocera will be replaced by Roberto Streit in the season finale. The Brazilian has been participating in this year's Japanese Formula 3 Championship, winning three races. Two years ago he contested the full Formula Three Euro Series season with Prema Powerteam, ending up tenth overall and third in the rookie rankings.