Preview: Aiello comes under attack

The diminutive Frenchman, who has won three races already this year in his Abt Audi TT-R, suffered a nightmare weekend at the German venue last year. This time around, however, he has not got set his sights on victory, but comes into the event well clear of current second placed driver Jean Alesi of Mercedes.

"This year, the situation is clear: I want to finish the race and score points," he said. "I am concentrating on the championship 100 percent. But it really is far too early to talk about the title."

Last year's surprise package at the Norisring was Opel's Joachim Winkelhock, when the circuit specialist chased home the then all-conquering works Mercedes-Benz pack.

"I haven't got a clue why the track suits me so well", said Winkelhock. "It looks so easy, but it has its own difficulties. Usually, experienced drivers are strong here, as a constant performance counts. Everything has to be 100 percent, because the track doesn't pardon the slightest mistake."

Last year's race winner Uwe Alzen has given up on his title aspirations, but is anxious to score his first win of 2002 for Mercedes-Benz.

"I can forget about the championship," he said. "But my motivation remains unaffected. For the Norisring, I am very confident. The circuit is all about top speed, traction and good brakes."

The racing on Sunday has been delayed to accommodate the World Cup final featuring Germany v Brazil. Tune in to autosport.com throughout the weekend for all the on-track action from the Norisring.