Coloni tests Australian F3 ace Caruso.

Coloni Motorsport has concluded an intensive two-day test session with new Australian Formula Three champion Michael Caruso and promising young Italian Michele Rugolo, as it continues to evaluate possible candidates for its 2004 line-up.

Running at the Italian venue of Magione, much of the focus was on Caruso, who was making his F3000 debut after flying in from his native Sydney. Despite his inexperience with both the circuit and the FIA F3000-spec Lola-Zytek, the Australian set a personal best close to the track record, and completed almost 100 laps in the two days.

Caruso only made his single-seater debut in 2001, having previously proven successful in karts. A year in the Australian FFord Championship was followed immediately by graduation to F3, where he won the national title in his second season. With six victories under his belt in 2003 alone, Caruso is now seeking to follow compatriots Mark Webber, Ryan Briscoe and James Courtney to Europe in order to further his career.

Partnering the Australian at Magione, Rugolo rejoined Coloni car representing the team at the Sardinia F3 Masters in Cagliari. Like Caruso, it was his first time in an F3000 car of this type, but he too set competitive times, despite only lapping on the morning of the second day.

"These were two days full of satisfaction," team boss Paolo Coloni commented, "Michael got confident with the B2/50 very quickly, constantly progressing and showing not only excellent driving skills, but also a great ability in setting up the car.

"I'm also very happy with the results shown by Michele Rugolo, who again showed all his qualities."

Coloni is expected back on track in January, when it will take the next steps towards preparing for the 2004 season.