Zanardi savours 'special' victory

More than a year has passed since the Italian's dramatic first victory in the series, which was his first international success since losing his legs in a Champ Car accident in 2001.

"My first win in Oschersleben was unbeatable in terms of emotions," he said. "However, my legs have not grown back so it is still hard to win, therefore this moment is also very special for me."

Zanardi was also pleased that his second success came in the opening race of the weekend, and felt that he had earned it on sheer speed.

At Oschersleben last year he had fought off several cars all the way to the chequered flag after starting from pole due to the reverse-grid format.

"It's great to win the first race, when everybody gives their all to score a good result," he said. "It's a fantastic feeling to see your rivals getting smaller and smaller in your mirrors."

In keeping with his sense of humour, Zanardi suggested that race two should be cancelled after a deluge hit the track, and that the points should be handed out based on race one results.