Abarth to Sponsor UK Karting Series in 2011

Abarth Cars has announced it is continuing its support of motorsport by becoming a title sponsor of a leading British karting championship in 2011. The challenge, which takes place Teesside Autodrome, will see joint support and sponsorship from both Abarth Cars UK and SG Petch, the York-based Abarth dealership. Thus, it will be known as the SG Petch Abarth 2011 Karting Open Championship.

In order to further help the series, a brand new an Assetto Corse 500 racer will be provided, in which the championship winner will be offered an official track day test. Fiat Group Automobiles UK’s motorsport division has also pledged to sponsor the end of season prize-giving dinner.

“Abarth and SG Petch are delighted to be involved in this exciting series as it allows us to support grass roots racing – the heart of everything we do. Teesside Autodrome is a wonderful venue which lends itself perfectly to karting and I’m sure we can expect a fine season of racing there,” says Ivan Gibson, head of Abarth UK.

Abarth is a company with its history strongly rooted in motorsport and racing. It all began in 1952 when founder Carlo Abarth started his association with Fiat by building the Abarth 1500 Biposto. In the 60s, he was successfully involved in hillclimbing and sports car racing, mainly in classes from 850cc up to 2000cc, competing with Porsche 904 and Ferrari Dino.After Fiat bought the company in 1971, Abarth became the racing department for the Italian carmaker, managed by famed engine designer Aurelio Lampredi.