Grapevine: Melandri to drive Alfa at Bologna

Melandri drove an Italian series car at last season's show, but will this year step up to the WTCC 156 for the 'Eurotouring' races that will take place in the Shell Arena as part of the Bologna event.

N.Technology team regular James Thompson will race a second Alfa Romeo in the contest, and SEAT's Gabriele Tarquini and Chevrolet's Nicola Larini have also confirmed their participation.

"I'm really looking forward to repeating last year's experience," said Melandri. "I was in a car from the Italian Touring Car Championship and this year I get to drive the official N.Technology World Touring Car Championship car, with James Thompson who finished third in the championship... It's pretty good!

"I hope I can finish at the top again, although some of the regulations have changed for this year, we will be running on slick tyres whereas last year was on wet-weather tyres. The aim is still to enjoy ourselves and put on a great show for the spectators, though."

Melandri has signed for MotoGP champions Ducati next season as teammate to 2007 title-winner Casey Stoner.