Iveco, the worlds leading manufacturer of diesel engines and one of the most important and prestigious names in the history of powerboat racing, is returning to offshore racing after an absence of 17 years. In 2006, Iveco Motors will compete in the UIM Powerboat P1 Wold Championship, utilising it’s Fiat Powertrain Technologies (FPT) business. Fiat has created FPT to integrate the groups innovation capabilities and expertise in engines and transmissions. As official engine supplier to Club Italia Offshore Racing, FPT will be providing the team with its new NEF 400 common rail engine. The testing of new engines and props on the Apache 41’ ‘Datch’ commenced on the water in January.

Vincenzo Tuccio, Technical Manager, Club Italia Offshore Racing: “We are very happy and proud to announce this significant agreement. This is a two year project designed around our existing boat, which competes in the Supersport category. However, FPT and ourselves are already looking at the long term opportunities and our intention, in year three, is to compete in Evolution with a new boat and big new engine.”

Massimo Lippi, Sport & Technical Director of KBL Powerboat Management Ltd, the championship promoter said: “Something very special is happening in P1!
 

"It is moving forward with great speed as sponsors, venues and in particular the marine industry are becoming more and more involved and this is a great boost to everyone, especially the teams. The Iveco Motors decision brings the number of engine suppliers competing in P1 to seven. Undoubtedly, Club Italia will become a much stronger team in 2006 with the support of such a prestigious and accomplished organisation. The Supersport class is already competitive - the 2005 Championship was not decided until the final race - and it looks like it is about to get even more competitive," added Lippi.

The six-round 2006 Powerboat P1 World Championship kicks off in 53 days time with the Grand Prix of Malta in Valletta (13-14 May), followed up by races at Anzio, Italy (03-04 June); Travemunde, Germany (01-02 July), Cowes, England (26-27 August); Gallipoli, Italy (16-17 September) and finally a yet-to-be announced location in Spain (30 September-01 October).