Pizzonia, Bernoldi get closer to drives

The test formed part of team owner Paul Gentilozzi's efforts to create a 'Team Brazil' for the 2006 season, and the solid performances from both drivers will have done the outfit's chances no harm at all.

Pizzonia was quickest of the pair, setting a best time of 1m11.700s during his 119 laps over two days. That effort was fourth tenths quicker than Bernoldi managed and just three-tenths off the unofficial track record set by Paul Tracy last week.

"We had two good days and it was great fun", said Pizzonia on his first Champ Car experience. "The Champ Car is quite different compared to what I am used to driving. They are a little bit bigger and heavier than a Formula One car, but the power is not much different. 

"The Rocketsports team worked real hard and they were a great bunch to work with. We were able to put together some good lap times, so I am very happy with how things went these past two days and really had a fun experience thanks to Rocketsports."

The Team Brazil concept is headed by four Brazilian businessmen. One of them, Fernando Gomes, told speedtv.com that he was hopeful about the project coming off.

"Rocketsports has accepted to come up with half of the budget [for the season]," he said. "Now we only need the other half to become a reality. Both Antonio and Enrique are very excited about the Team Brazil project and the chance to race in Champ Car.

"We already feel like part of the series, thanks to this great opportunity given us by [Rocketsports owner] Paul Gentilozzi."