DPR boosted by strong end to year

The team had not scored a point heading into the penultimate weekend of the season at Spa, but two podiums for Andy Soucek and a strong performance in testing at Jerez last week have lifted the team's spirits.

Soucek set the fastest time during the morning session on Thursday, while former Super Nova driver Luca Filippi set competitive times throughout both days at the Spanish track.

"On the back of two podiums we were confident that we had the package that can match anyone out there," said Price. "I think we proved that, with both drivers able to get the best out of the car.

"We had a slow start to the season, but from the mid-point we began to make real progress, so that by the end of it we were up there challenging for the win."

Price is now hoping that the team's strong finish to the year will encourage Soucek to stay with the team for a second season.

"Right from the first test with Andy I've believed in his abilities as a driver and never doubted how quick he can be," he said.

"I think through this season he's grown in confidence with the team and we've helped him to be more of a complete driver. I really hope that he'll stay with us, so that we can both benefit from all the hard work this season."

Soucek's four consecutive points finishes at the end of the year moved him up to 16th in the drivers' standings, while DPR finished 12th out of the 13 teams.