Rockingham boss promises improvements

Track chief David Grace has said the problems that plagued the oval during its first CART event in 2001, namely drainage and traffic queues, will be much better this time around. He believes there will be no repeat of last year's near-disaster when the track's surface was blighted by 'weepers' - caused by heavy rainfall in the week leading up to the event.

"During the winter we've sealed the original Tarmac surface and added 35mm on top of that with a special sealant which helps it drain," Grace told AUTOSPORT. "We know much more now about how the track behaves - how to get the moisture out. It should be a much smoother event, but people will expect more this time."

Facilities at Britain's newest race track have also been improved over last year, including the access roads and signage for spectators. Good news for race organisers is that weather forecasters are promising a dry weekend. Friday's practice and qualifying sessions should be held under sunny skies, although raceday on Saturday is likely to be cloudy.

For full details of Britain's fastest race of the year, read the free 36-page Rockingham 500 pull-out in this week's edition of AUTOSPORT magazine, on sale now priced £2.80.