Earlier today, the Italian team – formerly known as Minardi Piquet Sports – confirmed that Leimer will be part of their 2011 lineup in the GP2 Main Series. Leimer is no stranger from GP2 action however, as he made his debut in the championship last year for Ocean Racing Technology. In his first campaign in the Main Series, he ranked 19th overall (scoring one win, in Barcelona), following a disappointing campaign in the Asia Series (31st).
His flying laps in the latest GP2 test on the Abu Dhabi race track convinced team director Andrea Bergamini that Leimer would be the perfect replacement for Maldonado, the driver which Rapax took to his first GP2 title in career. At the same time, the Italian squad also secured its first teams' title in the series.
“We've been following him for a while, and he dominated the 2009 Formula Master championship,” said Bergamini about the driver who clinched the aforementioned series back in 2009, with 7 wins and 9 podiums from 16 races.
“In the recent test at Abu Dhabi he gave proof of [his] talent by clocking some extremely fast lap times, and he had a truly professional approach in dealing with the team's technical staff. This deal represents a huge step for Rapax in an attempt to try and be back at the top next season.”
Needless to say, the 21-year old Swiss driver was ecstatic about signing a deal with the reigning champions of the GP2 Series.
“I am proud and happy that I have signed with Rapax for my second year in GP2 and am excited that they have placed their trust in me. I know the team are fully committed to winning the championship again in 2011 and I will do all I can from my side to help them achieve this,” he said.
Google News