The month in MOTOR SPORT

The month in MOTOR SPORT

FEBRUARY

16: Emmanuel Clerico pips compatriot Eric Helary to the second Formula 3000 seat at Apomatox.

17: Paul Belmondo shakes down the Pacific PRO I Fl chassis at Snetterton. Team principal Keith Wiggins reports himself satisfied with the car’s first run.

M Robby Gordon escapes with a shaking after a heavy shunt during IndyCar testing at Phoenix.

/7:The Footwork FA I 5 is launched at Silverstone. During the ceremony, Jackie Oliver and Alan Rees reveal that the team will officially be entered as Arrows Grand Prix International this season. It is part of a gradual process which will see control of the team return to its co-founders.

18: Despite earlier denials that it would be running a rally programme with Ford, the lolly Club confirms that it will run Martinibacked Escort Cosworths for Dario Cerrato and Franco Cunico. Their main target will be the Italian Championship.

20:The Daytona 500 proves to be 276th time lucky for Sterling Marlin, who finally takes his first NASCAR win after countless near-misses. Marlin defeats Ernie Irvan by a car’s length.

21:Toyota says that Didier Auriol will definitely contest the Safari Rally. The Frenchman had previously avoided the event, partly because of his intense fear of the necessary injections!

23: Renault confirms that it is returning to F3. West Surrey Racing will run DallaraRenaults in the British Championship. Drivers will be Spaniards Ivan Arias and Pedro de la Rosa. Another firm F3 deal sees Gareth Rees joining Alan Docking Racing for his second year in the formula. Rees will drive a Dallara-Mugen.

24: Tyrrell unveils its 022 at London’s Motor Racing Show.