Martini hoping to race next year

Although the Italian is not yet 45 years old as required by the series' rules, he is hoping he will be allowed to race when the championship resumes in March.

Martini, who took part in 119 Grands Prix before he retired at the end of the 1999 season, raced in sportscars and touring cars before he retired from competition.

"I will be 45 years old in April so, with a small dispensation, I could already be on the track in March when racing will resume," Martini told Gazzetta dello Sport.

"I've already tried to get in touch with the organizer, Scott Poulter, by pointing out that, as far as number of Grands Prix are concerned, out of the Italians I'm only behind Riccardo Patrese and Andrea de Cesaris.

"I did 120 of them and I retired from racing in 1999 after winning the 24 Hours of Le Mans with BMW-Williams.

"I'd really like to be part of that group, as physically I'm keeping myself in shape and it would only be a matter of doing some tests behind the wheel before the races. Inside me there is still the animal with a great will to race.

"I followed with interest that first race in South Africa; I think that this venture could really be successful and have its own fan base if, as it seems, whoever goes on the track has every intention to fight.

"So, I'm waiting to be the right age while hoping there could be a place for me too. I'd really love to, also because I always raced with inferior machinery compared to my colleagues, and for once I'd like to fight on equal terms."