Giovanardi paces Imola test
Alfa Romeo returnee Fabrizio Giovanardi set the pace over a two-day European Touring Car Championship test at Imola, which finished yesterday (Thursday)
The Italian driver, who has switched back to Alfa after racing for BMW in 2003, lapped the circuit in 1m58.53s in a 2003-spec 156 Gta, shading BMW's Jorg Muller for the fastest time. The German set a best time of 1m58.74s.
Although Giovanardi set his time in a 2003-spec car, Alfa debuted its 2004 bodywork at the test, which included a heavily revised front splitter.
Ravaglia Motorsports BMW driver Antonio Garcia was third fastest, ahead of SEAT's Jordi Gene, with the second Ravaglia driver Alex Zanardi an impressive fourth.
"Alessandro was delighted," said team boss Roberto Ravaglia. "Now the driving aid system, developed together by Fadiel and BMW Motorsport is working perfectly, and he can look for pure performances."
ETCC champion Gabriele Tarquini missed the second day of the test to attend an FIA hearing in Paris regarding the controversial accident between him and BMW's Duncan Huisman in the Monza season finale. A verdict is due later today.
Fabrizio Giovanardi Alfa 156 Gta 1m58.53s
Jorg Muller BMW 320i 1m58.74s
Antonio Garcia BMW 320i 1m59.15s
Jordi Gene SEAT Toledo Cupra 1m59.20s
Alex Zanardi BMW 320i 1m59.25s
Frank Diefenbacher SEAT Toledo Cupra 1m59.26s
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