Liuzzi to race for A1 Team Italy

The former grand prix driver is the reserve driver for the Force India and has been cleared by his Formula 1 team to participate in A1GP with Team Italy to keep him in the habit of racing.

Liuzzi competed in eight Speedcar races during the winter but is pleased to have a some single-seater races ahead of him with three A1GP rounds remaining this season.

"I'm really looking forward to trying the A1GP car and to get back to racing, which is the thing I like to do most," said Liuzzi. "I am pleased that Vijay Mallya and Force India agreed to release me for these races so I can feel the adrenalin of a race atmosphere again."

Liuzzi is due to use the A1GP simulator in Modena, Italy today and tomorrow and will get behind the wheel of the car for the first time on Friday at Portimao.

A1GP CEO Pete da Silva added: "This is amazing news for the series. Obviously his reputation goes before him and I am delighted that a driver of his calibre is happy to sit in an A1GP car for the pride of his nation."

Team Italy is currently 14th in the A1GP standings with Fabio Onidi and Edoardo Piscopo each having a best result of seventh place so far this season.