Diaz impresses Fernandez in test

The Toyota Atlantic race winner is poised to drive in place of countryman Adrian Fernandez, if the owner/driver has not recovered from the injuries he suffered in a huge crash at Surfers Paradise. Although Max Papis drove for the team at the last race in Fontana, Fernandez is keen for a Mexican driver to race in his home event.

Diaz completed 113 laps of the 1.2-mile Firebird International Raceway circuit, near Pheonix, Arizona. Although the test marked the first time the Mexican had driven a Champ Car, he impressed the team. "Luis did a very good job," said Fernandez. "He was very consistent and very precise in what he was saying to [race engineer] David Watson. He never put a wheel wrong and I am very happy and very impressed."

Diaz enjoyed his first experience of driving a Champ Car, saying: "Today was great. I am very happy. It was very tough because this car is a lot bigger than the Atlantic car and has a lot more power but, with Adrian's advice and with this great team, it was a lot easier because they helped me with my learning curve. I didn't make any mistakes and I think I worked very well with David [Watson]. For me, it was a great day and I am really very happy."