Zanardi eyes Formula 1 return

The Italian, who is racing in the European Touring Car Championship for BMW with a specially modified car, made a rare appearance in the Formula 1 paddock at Monza this weekend and declared his intention to taste grand prix machinery again. Former Williams technical director Patrick Head has already offered to get him back in an F1 car.

Speaking to Italian media, Zanardi said: "The idea [of an F1 test] has crossed my mind and I have talked about it with Patrick Head, who had promised me a test. I might as well remind him of that."

Zanardi has maintained close links with Williams since returning to F1 with the team in 2000 and is determined that a promise of a test offered by Head is fulfilled.

"A lot of people made promises after the accident - and some of them were on the spur of the moment. Patrick talked about it, but quite a while ago. I guess he is not so busy now so I will go and talk to him and remind him. I would love to test."

Zanardi is well aware of the numerous modifications that will be needed to make his F1 dream become a reality - but has made it clear that he is not going to easily give up on achieving his target.