VALENCIA, Italy, Dec. 18 (UPI) -- More than two years after losing his legs in a horrific crash, Alex Zanardi confirmed Thursday he will drive in the 2004 European Touring Car Championship
The former CART champion will drive a BMW E46 for Team Ravaglia. It will mark his full-time return to racing following the September 2001 accident in Germany that cost him both legs below the knee.
"I am very happy to be able to participate in this championship," said Zanardi, who competed in the final race of the ETCC championship this year at Monza.
"I would like to thank BMW Italy and Team Ravaglia for their faith in this project. The race at Monza this year was an encouraging experience."
Zanardi's car will be a modified BMW 230i with only one pedal for the breaks. The accelerator and clutch will be located on the steering wheel.
