“I'm really looking forward to making my debut for A1GP Team Netherlands and representing my country for the first time. It's a new experience for me to be representing my country in this successful A1GP series. I have never seen the circuit in Chengdu and have only tested the A1GP Powered by Ferrari car for 20 laps,” admitted Doornbos just hours before making his debut in the A1 GP.
The Dutch driver spent his last year racing inside the Super League Formula championship as a continuance to his successful season in the defunct ChampCar World Series in 2007. He received the ‘Rookie of the year’ honors in his only season inside the ChampCar series and was one of the few competitors to challenge 4-time champion Sebastien Bourdais for race wins. He also used to drive for Minardi and Red Bull Racing inside F1, after previously testing for Jordan and RBR.
Not only will Doornbos replace former seat holder Jeroen Bleekemolen in Team Netherlands for the Chinese round, but the Dutch team has also taken care of another rookie driver debuting in the series at Chengdu. His name is Dennis Retera and his only action for the weekend will happen during the Friday Rookie Sessions.
“Two weeks ago I hear that I was going to do the Rookie test for the Netherlands and a day later I was in England for a seat fitting," said Retera. "It did come as a bit of a surprise, but I am very happy with this chance. This Friday I will be able to drive the car for the first time, I will have to get used to it, never before did I drive such a powerful car and the track is also new to me. I cannot wait for it! I think I will gain valuable experience with this test and also hope that I can help the team with a good base set up for Robert who will drive the races this weekend,” admitted Retera.
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