Carroll targets title in year two

The 25-year-old, a multiple race-winner in GP2, has confirmed his interest in continuing with Team Ireland for another season, and believes they can be genuine contenders as the series switches to new Ferrari-designed machinery.

"It wasn't just a monkey on our back, it was like a 300 kilo gorilla called Dave," joked Carroll about his victory two weeks ago. "The win makes all the hard work worth it. It's such a relief, there are so many people who believe in you but there are so many doubters and people who always begrudge that you haven't done this or that - it is what drives us on to be better and win.

"Of course, I want to stay with the team next season. A1GP is going to go from strength to strength. Everyone just needs to stick with it and we can fight hard for the championship."

Carroll added that he has enjoyed his first season in the series and found its unique nationality-based format refreshing.

"A1GP is not trying to be anything else, it's its own concept," he said. "It's a professional championship where drivers want to come and race and make a good career. It is such an enjoyable series as a driver - I've been to some great circuits, good hotels and seen some great people. It is one big family and everybody gets on well."