Martini plans touring car move

The Italian, who won this year's race with BMW, has turned down a drive for the second half of the American Le Mans Series.

The 38-year-old, who raced in 199 grands prix, ruled out a move to Rafanelli's ALMS team and is hoping to enter Germany's new V8 touring car series next season.

'When I stopped Formula One in 1995, I said to myself that now I must win Le Mans,' he said.

'Now I've won the biggest sportscar race and had pole position (in 1996), I want to look at touring car racing.

'I enjoy endurance racing, but my first love is sprint racing.'

Martini has not ruled out defending his Le Mans crown next year.

'I won't say I will not race at Le Mans, because I'm sure the opportunity will still be there for me to do the race,' he added.

'If I get the offer of a good drive I will definitely consider it.'