Pearson in line for Monaco race

Renault Clio V6 racer, Rick Pearson may contest the Monaco Grand Prix support race next weekend after being called up as second reserve for round two of the European Clio Trophy.

"I narrowly missed out on an automatic entry when pre-qualifying took place at Monza in March," he said, "so I'm delighted to have been given this chance, not least because it means I am the only Briton short listed for the event. Because it's only turned into a racetrack twice a year- once for the Grand Prix and sometimes for the Monte Carlo Rally- only a small number of drivers ever get to race around the streets of the principality. I'm honoured to think that I may be one of the few who get to experience it firsthand."

Although the final entry list has yet to be announced, Pearson and his Mark Fish Motorsport team will spend the week in Monaco preparing to race. "After pre-season testing and round one at Monza, we have a good idea of what the Clio V6 is capable of, said Pearson. "It's very powerful for a small car but the responsive steering and short wheelbase should make for a lot of fun around the tight and twisty streets. The close proximity and unforgiving confines of the circuit will be a great challenge and hopefully, extremely entertaining."

Team boss, Mark Fish will be returning to Monaco for the first time as a team owner after competing in the principality during his own racing career. "I have many fond memories of Monaco as a driver," he commented. "To go back after eleven years, is something that I am definitely looking forward to. It will be especially rewarding for me to be there with my own team and with Rick, as I know that this was his ultimate goal."

The final list of entries for round two of the Renaultsport Clio Trophy will be announced on Wednesday, May 16. Updates will be available throughout the week at www.cliosport.com.

Rick Pearson will be racing with ActiveShop.com, Freeparking.co.uk and Mintex.

-Rebecca Appleton