Clarke aims for Portland fightback

The Briton, who is currently on Champ Car's European media tour, has stated that the encouraging performance he showed in testing at Portland two weeks ago is a sign that he is on form again.

Clarke said: "After the test, the Minardi's team energy is back to how it was when I was with them last year. We know our game better, but we're still learning all the time.

"I think the team were pleased with the loyalty I showed to them over winter by coming to the tests, even though I wasn't running. I stood by them and didn't try to get in any rival team.

"Then when the opportunity came up for me at the 11th hour to return to the Minardi [formerly CTE Racing], I had no testing of the new DP01.. I'm not saying it was a huge problem in Las Vegas, the opening round, because it's still a Champ Car, handles like a Champ Car, and we have the same engine, and the circuit was new to everyone.

"No, I think what has counted against us has been the fact that we've had more than our fair share of bad luck. Going back to Portland has rebuilt our confidence and we're all really looking forward to the race there now."

Reflecting on the fact that his new teammate, Robert Doornbos has scored two podiums in the opening three rounds, Clarke said: "Out of loyalty to the team and the individuals involved, I'm happy to see them in the top three.

"On the other hand, I'm a racing driver, and I want to beat my teammate of course. So now that we've been to Portland for the test, and I was quicker than him, then the ball is now back in his court.

"I like that circuit - it's fast, and the new DP01 is a lot faster round there than the Lola was, so I think that's good for me, and for the series as a whole."