Zanardi comeback drawing closer

Recent comments in the American press by the Williams F1 refugee have added weight to speculation that he will join Mo Nunn's new team for several late season races.

Nunn engineered Zanardi's car during his three-year stint with Target Chip Ganassi Racing, the pair taking the 1997 and 1998 titles.

'My life changed because of my time in America and I have nothing but good memories,' Zanardi admitted.

'To do something with Mo would be special. A little part of me would like to go back to that situation. But my private life has to be sacrificed and, for me, right now it's too much.'

The Italian confirmed that Nunn had offered him a part-season deal to drive a second Reynard-Mercedes alongside rising Brazilian star Tony Kanaan.

'Morris asked me: 'Alex, will you come and test our car if I'm in trouble?'' he explained. 'I told him I would be honoured if I can help. Then he wanted me to pick some tracks I like and do five races for him. For that, I couldn't give an answer.

'I am sure I still have the ability I had two years ago. If one day the desire of feeling the emotions a racecar can give me grow back bigger than other considerations in my life, then I'll come back and do it again.'