Friday, 9th May 2008

Veteran Sugden steps in for owner-driver Niarchos.

CR Scuderia has been forced to make changes to its line-up ahead of the second round of the FIA GT Championship, at Monza, next weekend, after owner Chris Niarchos bowed to business commitments.

While it is every racer's dream to win in a Ferrari at the Pista Magica, Niarchos has reluctantly given up his role alongside Tim Mullen in the #55 430, with veteran Tim Sugden coming in to partner his near namesake.

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“I'm delighted to have been offered the opportunity to race with CR Scuderia at Monza," Sugden admitted, "I know all the people in the team very well and can't wait to drive for such a well-equipped and well-organised team. Monza is also one of my favourite tracks and I'm sure the combination of myself and Tim Mullen will work brilliantly.”

Mullen agreed that the historic Italian venue should allow the GT2 machine to stretch its legs, and team-mates Andrew Kirkaldy and Rob Bell will be looking to build on the great start to their season, in which they took second place in class at Silverstone's FIA GT opener a few weeks ago. Bell also raced a GT2 class 430 at Monza late last month, setting pole position for the 1000km race.

“I think it shows our intentions when Andrew and I were disappointed to finish second at Silverstone," Bell said, "We're in this to win and, after having to retire from the lead of the LMS race at Monza, I am even more determined to get the right result this time.”

“I am so looking forward to our race at Monza," Niarchos commented, "Although I will not be present, I am extremely confident of my team in my absence. They are an incredible group of professionals who have done a fantastic job so far this year and I expect Monza to be no different.

"Tim Sugden, who will be replacing me, is a driver of the highest calibre who has raced with me and for Cobra on many occasions. I have the highest respect for him, and his partnership with Tim Mullen will give the team an even greater competitiveness.”

The owner-driver expects to return at Adria next month.

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