Vitantonio Liuzzi took a convincing win in the first round of the FIA International Formula 3000 Championship held at Imola on Saturday afternoon. The Arden International driver, who has been touted as a strong title favourite, took his Lola B2/50 to register his first win at this level.

The Italian led from pole position and controlled the race immediately, opening up a healthy gap to his pursuers, even re-joining after his pit stop still at the head of the field. The former World Karting Champion, who is managed by former Lotus F1 boss Peter Collins, took the flag 8.8 seconds clear of countryman Enrico Toccocelo to open his and Arden’s account for the 2004 season.