For the first time in six years, the Pirelli-supported MINI Challenge will compete on European soil as the one-make racing series prepares for the penultimate round of the year in Zandvoort, the Netherlands, this weekend (7-8 September).

First opened back in 1948, the 2.7 mile Zandvoort circuit hosted the Dutch round of Formula One until 1985. It is characterised by fast, sweeping corners such as the Tarzanbocht hairpin (Tarzan corner) and will be a true test of talent for the MINI Challenge drivers who will have no chance to test on the circuit before the race.

Following his double victory at the most recent round at Castle Combe, Englishman Shane Stoney will be hoping to extend his lead in both the overall standings and the Cooper Class. With two rounds remaining Chris Smith leads the John Cooper Works Class, 11 points ahead of Chris Smiley.

“Zandvoort is my best chance at taking a race win so far,” explained Cooper Class driver, Ricky Page. “Everybody going there will be in the same boat - nobody has tested there so the pressure is on to learn. For once track experience won’t be a factor and it will be whoever finds out the tricks to the track first that will benefit.”

Pirelli UK Motorsport Operations Manager, Matthew Corby, added: “Zandvoort could be one of those races that separate the men from the boys. It’s a new addition to the MINI challenge calendar and this time nobody can benefit from knowing the circuit better than the others. It’s going to be a level playing field and with none of the drivers having had the chance to test at Zandvoort, it’ll be interesting to see who comes out top. Long-range weather forecasts show that temperatures will hover in the late twenties on Saturday so we are expecting Pirelli’s 225/625-17 DH slick tyre to be the tyre of choice. However, we can expect some rain on Sunday so I'm sure the wets will come out to play too. I’d like to wish the best of luck to the JCW and Cooper Class teams and as always, Pirelli will be trackside to offer any advice.”