Champ Pirro calls for points changes

Audi star Pirro clinched the title at the season-closing Petit Le mans 1000-mile enduro. Biela finished runner-up, just two points behind the Italian, but that points difference is the result of the ALMS's system of bonus points for poles, fastest laps and laps led.

Pirro argues that both drivers make an equally important contribution and should therefore be rewarded equally, and that the system is made a lottery by the tactics which decide when a driver does his race stints. For longer stints, for example, a car will carry more fuel, making fastest laps virtually impossible.

"I really, truly feel that we are both the champions," said Pirro. "We drove every single race together. If I'm here as champion, it's because of his support. I truly think we are the champions."

Biela added: "As Emanuele said, we were in the car for the season. We do long distance races, but if they want one champion, they should run single-driver sprint races."

The Audi duo were the catalyst to a campaign currently gathering momentum that they hope will persuade the series' organisers to change the points system to reward team mates equally. During the Petit Le mans weekend, a driver petition calling for changes has been signed by almost the whole ALMS grid.

"Even on the grid before the start of the race, we were walking around making sure we got as many signatures as possible," said Biela. "Everybody signed without hesitation, so I hope the officials will change it for next season."