WTCC swaps Anderstorp for Imola

Anderstorp has been dropped from this season's World Touring Car Championship schedule, and Imola will take over its September date to hold its first international meeting since the circuit was rebuilt

Steven English May 3, 2008, 12:03 PM

The round in Sweden on September 20-21 was cancelled by the WTCC's governing body, the FIA, following a request from the Swedish National Sporting Authority after the WTCC failed to reach a commercial agreement with the event's promoters.

Anderstorp hopes to regain its place on the calendar in 2009.

The Touring Car Commission approved the switch to Imola, which has been rebuilt after being demolishing in 2006. The Italian circuit previously hosted the WTCC in 2005 and the then European championship in 2004.

WTCC promoter Marcello Lotti believes series is a good event to showcase the rebuilt Imola.

"We're obviously extremely honoured and excited to have the opportunity to play the leading role in Imola's re-opening to international racing," he said.

Imola promoter Massimo Cimatti added: "Imola is back on track. We're delighted to launch our new calendar with an event such as the WTCC. This is a major reward for all the efforts we've made."