Fittipaldi Dingman tests Philippe

Philippe, who competed this year in the Barber Dodge series, earned high praise from former F1 world champion team owner Emerson Fittipaldi after completing his first test run, which was cut short due to heavy showers.

"I am very proud to invite the youngest driver ever to drive a Champ Car," said Fittipaldi. "I have been following Nelson's career in the last few years through karting and more recently the Barber Dodge Pro Series. His talent and the progression I have seen, convinced us to invite him to an official Champ Car testing session in Sebring.

"It is a great day for Nelson - his performance was impressive and his results surpassed our expectations. Nelson consistently improved his lap times and his ability to respond to the instructions of his engineers and mechanics provided further proof of his talent, not only as a driver but as a professional. Nelson has earned a place on our short list for next year and we will definitely consider him as a possible driver for the 2004 season."

Philippe began his racing career in karting in Argentina at the age of 12. He then moved to Italy where he raced in karting and was appointed as Tony Kart Racing Junior class official driver in 2001. He made his debut in cars this year in Barber Dodge.