Campetella launch 2003 campaign.

250cc Grand Prix outfit Campetella Racing officially launched their 2003 campaign in Italy at the weekend, when they presented their team - including riders Franco Battaini and Sylvain Guintoli, plus their multicoloured Aprilias - to the media [pictured].

Last season, riders' Randy de Puniet and Alex Debon finished eighth and eleventh respectively in the championship standings, but both have moved on to other teams for this season.

"2002 was the year our team became a real championship contender," said General Manager Carlo Campetalla. "Now, although we've lost de Puniet - who provided most of our strong results last season - we have retained a good line-up by adding a proven rider, Franco Battaini, to an up and coming star, Sylvain Guintoli, and are sure we'll do even better than last year.

"We are still searching for other sponsors to complete our budget and can't rule out the possibility that we'll have full factory machinery if we can find the funds necessary," added Campetella.

Battaini impressed last season with sixth overall in the 2002 championship for the Imola Exalt Cycle Team, but is hoping to take his first GP victory this season. The Italian injured his foot in a pre-season testing crash, but should be fit to test at Mugello this week.

"I soon settled in with the team and knew from last year that Team Campetella are professional, personal and have a lot of experience," declared Battaini. "My ambition for this year is to regularly run up front; I would want to improve on my championship position from last season and hopefully win a Grand Prix."

Team-mate Guintoli is considered one of France's most promising riders, and has high hopes for the season ahead.

"I am happy to be part of Team Campetella because I believe - and I hope - that together we will be able to achieve excellent results," said Sylvain. "The 2003 season is very important for me and I think I'll be able to cause a few surprises."

Aprilia's Jan Witteveen, two representatives from the Mobile Clinic and Campetalla teams' sponsors were also present at the launch.