CHAMPCAR/CART: Mansell sets fastest lap at Rockingham

Nigel Mansell set a new lap record on the new Rockingham Motor Speedway Oval track of 33.009 seconds. Nigel lapped the 1.5 mile circuit in a staggering 163.59 mph, over 3 mph faster than the fastest lap ever record in the UK, which was set at Silverstone by Finnish Formula One World Champion Keke Rosberg in 1985 (160.4mph).

Nigel was all smiles in front of the gathered media after his ten lap run, which he finished with a number of doughnuts in front of the packed turn one grandstand. "Wow, what a brilliant circuit, this bodes so well for the future of motorsport in this country. I am very excited about the whole thing, this is nothing like an American Oval, this is something very special. When the Champ Car World Series comes here is September I predict speeds of over 180 mph and the racing will be awesome to watch."

The 1992 Formula 1 and 1993 Indy Car Champion was glad to be back behind the wheel and was determined to set a competitive time. "I did a couple of laps in the 34's and knew what I had to do. I slowed for a couple of laps and then pushed really hard in one big one. The seat wasn't a perfect fit and I was really having a job hanging on so I was really happy to set a 33 second lap. I hope Rockingham gets all the praise it deserves for this impressive circuit, British motor sport really needs this!"

Rockingham's Chief Executive David Grace summed up the feeling of everyone involved with Britain's newest racing circuit. "My heart was in my mouth as I was watching Nigel lap the oval. This is a great day for Rockingham and Nigel has provided us with a great start."

-Rockingham Motor Speedway