Speedcar: Chris Zoechling Bahrain II race two report

Austria's biggest talent in motor racing, Christopher Zoechling, was named "Rookie of the Year" in the Speedcar Series.

Scoring 19 points in his debut season, the 21-year-old finished an excellent eighth in the overall standings, among others outpacing his famous team mate, former F1 world champion Jacques Villeneuve. "I am absolutely delighted about this season, particularly, as most of the tracks - like Qatar or Bahrain - were completely new to me. In addition, holding a former F1 champion at bay is simply the best."

After his Italian team pulled out of the competition halfway through the season, the youngster was welcomed at Team Continental Circus (supported by formed Sauber-BMW F1 boffins) and Heinz-Harald Frentzen with open arms and once again proced his great talent: Pole position and second place in Dubai, followed by fourth place in Bahrain. "Chris is a great guy. He is not only extremely quick, but also highly mature considering his young age and also a true professional outside the car," Frentzen, F1 runner-up 1997, praised his new team mate.

His excellent displays, his spectacular car handling and his openness turned the born Austrian, who lives in Dubai and speaks perfect Arabic, not only to the hero of the fans, but also to a man to watch for the team bosses and scouts. "Dubai is my foster home. I love the people and their culture. It is great to represent this pulsating metropolis abroad"

Zoechling has so far received offers from teams in the Porsche Supercup, the Le Mans Prototype Series, the Indy Lights Serie, the Ferrari GT Series, etc. But his heart is rooted for Prototype racers. "To me the Le Mans prototypes have always been the hottest racing cars. I would love to drive in the LMS, if possible for Audi."

His management is already in negotiations with the Le Mans Team of former F1-driver Giovanni Lavaggi and chances are good. "The team wants me, so we have to see how we can raise the season budget, which is even more difficult in times like these," Zoechling is well aware of the financial crisis. Scuderia Lavaggi has been racing successfully in LMS since 2007 using self-constructed cars.

-credit: cz