Herbert prepares for Mini adventure.

Midland F1 sporting director Johnny Herbert will take to the track himself at Imola this weekend when he lines-up on the grid for the opening round of the 2006 Mini Challenge.

Herbert will drive one of three VIP cars on the 38 car grid, with fellow ex-F1 driver Christian Danner and popstar Haddaway also competing in the opening round of the eight race season.

Danner, who finished seventh in the inaugural Grand Prix Masters race at Kyalami late last year, said he was looking forward to competing in the race and was keen to do battle on track with Herbert.

"I'm really looking forward to racing this weekend," he said. "I competed in a Mini Challenge race in Spa back in 2004 and it was great fun.

"I think Johnny will have the physical advantage out on track purely because of his height, he's definitely more built for Mini's than I am - he's a dwarf compared to me! Joking aside, it will be great to race against my old friend, I can't wait.

"It's been a while since I've raced in Imola but one of the things I remember most about racing here is the electric atmosphere. The two races over the weekend are support races to the Formula One Grand Prix and the fans love the Mini series."

Herbert added that he too was ready to do battle on track, although he wasn't too concerned about the challenge of one of his fellow VIP racers.

"Like Christian, I can't wait to race this weekend," he said. "I'm definitely up for the challenge! For me, the most important things are to put on a good show for the fans and do my best competitively.

"Maybe I have got a slight advantage over Christian but I still think he's going to give me a good run for my money! I'm not too concerned about Haddaway, if it was a singing competition, sure I'd be worried but it's racing and that's my game!"