Giovanardi happy with BTCC move

Speaking on stage at the Autosport International Show, the Italian claimed that there were no second thoughts about making the switch from the world championship to race in Britain.

"Yeah, it was my choice and it was the best choice for my career," said Giovanardi. "I want to try and put on my CV the BTCC title, because I have won a lot in Europe, and it is a new challenge."

Giovanardi admitted that the biggest challenge he will face is learning the British circuits, and he has said he is not fazed by the high-contact nature of the series.

"I will have to learn the circuits with TOCA Touring Car (computer game)," he said.

Giovanardi's teammate Tom Chilton is equally upbeat about the new season - and said he cannot wait for the campaign to begin.

"Just talking about it here is giving me a buzz," he said. "This year is going to be a great championship in terms of more cars, better drivers and the TV coverage having gone up. I am very excited."