‘Speedy’ Dan Clarke is another homesick Brit who’s delighted that the Champ Car series has brought him back to Europe – but the racing isn’t the only attraction.
As well as a welcome opportunity to visit friends and family in Britain, the main thing on his mind is getting the chance to eat some Belgian waffles.
He said: “There’s great momentum in my team right now. As a result of Champ Car staging these two European races, I’ve been able to go home and spend time with friends and family, which has been a huge pleasure!
“If we have another great race here, we can celebrate it with some Belgian waffles!”
He’s got plenty to celebrate already after earning his best Champ Car result to date just over a week ago, with a second-place finish at Road America, one of his favourite tracks, and a venue that finally gave him the opportunity to demonstrate his pace.
The teams will be visiting Zolder for the Grand Prix of Belgium from August 24 and then moving on to Asser for the Bavaria Champ Car Grand Prix of Holland from August 31. Both races are new Champ Car events for 2007.
Minardi USA co-owner Paul Stoddart said: “With these two events, the Series will be able to give fans on this side of the Atlantic an opportunity to see what I’m sure will be some really entertaining racing.
“There is huge enthusiasm for, and knowledge about, motor racing in this part of the world, and I’m sure all the Champ Car teams and drivers are going to be extremely well received by the Dutch and Belgian fans.
“There’s also no doubt that Robert, Dan and Minardi Team USA will be aiming to give those fans something to cheer about!”