The newly-launched trophy will start in 2012

A test with the Cruze WTCC is among the awards of the new Cruze Cup Italia, which will start in 2012 and was announced last week-end in Monza. Following the success of the ADAC Cruze Cup in Germany, a similar, privately-run, initiative has been launched in Italy.

The Cruze Cup Italia, which will start in 2012, will feature a 1.8 liter, 140 hp version of the Cruze, prepared by Weichers Motorsport. The car, priced at EUR26,000 plus taxes, is aimed at giving the opportunity to young and gentlemen drivers access the world of motor racing. The Cruze Cup Italia will compete within the existing Campionato Italiano Turismo Endurance (CITE), one of the official championships organized by ACI Sport, the Italian motorsports federation.

To support the initiative, Chevrolet has decided to create a Chevrolet Driver Academy and to award a test with the Cruze WTCC to the trophy's best young driver.

QUOTESEric Nève: “We are delighted to see a Cruze Cup launched in Italy, two years after the successful inception of a similar trophy in Germany. Making motorsports affordable to as many drivers as possible is perfectly in line with Chevrolet’s philosophy, and we are happy to support the rise of young talents by offering as one of the prizes a real test at the wheel of the Cruze WTCC.”Ron Hartvelt: “Contrary to what happens with single-seater formula, there are few organized career paths for young drivers interested in touring car racing. Any initiative such as the one promoted by the Cruze Cup Italia is therefore welcomed. For us, testing young drivers and getting their feedback is particularly interesting. The test we are offering will allow the selected driver to be involved in one of the team’s testing sessions, giving him the opportunity to drive one of our race cars, and to work with our team and our drivers in real testing conditions.”