I'm incredibly honoured that Champ Car have asked me to drive, 'Hinch' said, It's especially significant given this is the last ever Champ Car World Series event. Deep down, I'm a little gutted that it's the end of the road because I always wanted to race in Champ Car, but at least now I can say that I participated in the final race - I'm just driving the wrong machine! I'm excited to drive the Mazda RX8 though, and I'm sure I'll have a good time managing my new responsibilities. I guess, secretly, I'm hoping that there are a few yellows during the race so I get a little bit of action on Sunday afternoon!
Friday evening - Justin is the daddy
Justin Wilson proved to be the fastest man in Long Beach on the opening day of 'real' action at the final Champ Car event, setting the pace in both first practice and qualifying.
The Briton is a brand new father... and a earlier than expected as wife Jane gave birth to daughter Julie several days ago in Colorado. Mother and daughter are doing fine but, while Jane was released from hospital, Julie will probably have to remain there for another month as she only weighed 4.4 pounds at birth. Wilson said his daughter had very long arms and legs - no doubt getting that from her father - and, while he was happy to get the chance to be in Long Beach without having to worry about the birth, he admitted that he was thrilled to be there for the occasion.
Wilson expected Friday morning to be a very interesting session, being back in the Panoz after racing in the Indy Racing League Dallara for the past few weeks. It's a nostalgic ride for the Briton this weekend, as he started his Champ Car career at this race eight years ago.
