18.03.2004 THE MASERATI TROFEO EUROPA RUNNERS TESTED AT VALLELUNGA THIS WEEK

Trofeo Vodafone Maserati Europa pre-season tests came to an end today at the Vallelunga circuit. More than 20 drivers from four different countries (Italy, Switzerland, Germany and Great Britain) got to know the Roman track where the opening race of Maserati’s single-make championship will take place on 2 May.

In the course of this two-day test session, two drivers, Andrea Palma and Maurizio Fabris, immediately stood out from the rest. The former for his overall brilliant performance and proximity to the leading drivers, and the latter for his consistent lap times.

Also very interesting to watch were the drivers who had participated in the championship last year: Alessi, Cerrai and Smurra proved themselves to be the best according to the chronometer.

Reigning Trofeo champion, Smurra, was surprised by the higher level of competitiveness this season. He said “These two days have shown that there is a greater number of opponents to beat in 2004. There are some new drivers covering the track very fast, with lap times comparable to ours”.

There are a few new line-ups among the 26 teams: Ravasio-Alessi, Manuzzi-Bartoli, Rota-Triggianese, Petrini-Grimoldi and the Roggero pair.

Seven races are scheduled for the Trofeo Vodafone Maserati Europa 2004, two of which will take place the same weekend as the Formula 1 races (at Silverstone on 10 July and at Hockenheim on 25 July).

All drivers at Vallelunga showed their appreciation for the power and driveability of the Maserati Trofeo. The car is derived from the Coupè Cambiocorsa. Its Pirelli tyres guarantee excellent grip on roads.

The next set of Trofeo Vodafone Maserati Europa pre-season tests will take place at the Misano circuit on 7 April.