Luigi Ferrara will deputise for the Le Mans-bound Oli Webb in this weekend’s PURE ETCR round at the Hungaroring, getting behind the wheel of one of Romeo Ferraris’ Alfa Romeo Giulia ETCR cars.
Ferrara last competed in TCR machinery in 2018, when he took part in the final two rounds of the FIA World Touring Car Cup in a Romeo Ferraris-built Alfa Romeo Giulietta.
He also nearly clinched the 2018 TCR Italy title in an Alfa Romeo, finishing the year second overall but as the driver who claimed the most race wins, with five to his name.
More recently, the 39-year-old has been competing in the Euro NASCAR series, where he has contested selected races for the past three years.
He steps into Webb’s race seat, with the Brit having a clashing commitment at the Le Mans 24 Hours this weekend.
Ferrara has a wealth of rear-wheel drive experience, having previously raced in the Superstars series and Italian GT Championship.
He recently took part in a one-day test at Varano in preparation for the event, where he will share a car with Rodrigo Baptista.
Ferrara thanked Team Principal Michela Cerruti for her faith in putting him in the car, along with Technical Director Mario Ferraris – both of whom he has raced against previously in Superstars.
“I’m really happy to join Romeo Ferraris-M1RA for PURE ETCR,” said Ferrara, the 2005 Italian Formula 3 Champion. “I wish to thank Michela and Mario for this chance and I hope to reward their trust with great performances on track.
“I know the team well as I raced already in the 2018 FIA WTCR season’s finale; the same year I fought for the TCR Italy title with the Alfa Romeo Giulietta TCR by Romeo Ferraris.
“The Hungaroring is a nice track and it will be fun to drive it with the Giulia ETCR by Romeo Ferraris.
“I had the chance to test the car during one day at Varano, and the feeling was great. High temperatures will be an important factor to consider, but let’s make it”.