Liuzzi to drive at Imola

By ian Lockwood
March 22 2005

Red Bull Racing have given the clearest hint yet that Austrian driver, Christian Klien (22) will be made to give up his seat to Italian teamate 'Tonio Liuzzi (24) from the fourth race of the season - The San Marino Grand Prix at Imola.

Helmut Marko is F1 advisor to the Red Bull company. Speaking on Austrian TV programme 'Sport Am Sonntag' he admitted that whilst Klien is doing a solid job for Red Bull Racing, by scoring points in the opening two races, Liuzzi is likely to be given his chance to shine at Imola, Barcelona, and Monte-Carlo. Helmut said that Red Bull Racing are very keen not to lose the services of the reigning F3000 champion and that the 2005 F1 driver evaluation programme will be "very thorough" - perhaps hinting at several swaps between Klien and Liuzzi throughout the season. This prospect does not daunt F1 rookie Liuzzi - "It's a fair situation and will push both of us to a top level of performance. The atmosphere couldn't be better. I'm overjoyed to have gotten to be a member of this team. The duel between Christian and me takes place only on the racetrack but I'll be giving my all so that I can compete as often as possible in my first season."

It will of course mean he will have less time to enjoy his hobbies (which he lists as girls, music, dancing & soccer) during grandprix weekends. Here he is at Malaysia indulging the first on his list with the Red Bull Girls

Is top British F1 points scorer David Coulthard worried about the potential he can see in Liuzzi though, or does he just want to maintain the "status quo" having met the band in Sepang? "So far Christian is doing well, pushing me along," DC, 33, admitted.