Romeo Ferraris has named Stefano Coletti as its first driver for the all-electric PURE ETCR series, where the Monegasque driver will race the Alfa Romeo Giulia ETCR car.
Coletti, 31, will make his test début at the Autodromo Vallelunga next week when the car will run on-track for the first time.
The Monaco-born driver started his career in single-seaters, racing in Formula BMW, Formula Renault and the F3 Euro Series from 2005 to 2009.
He then spent four years in GP2, where he was an eight-time race winner, before moving to IndyCar in 2015, where he claimed second place in the Rookie of the Year standings.
In 2016 Coletti switched to sportscar racing, finishing third in that year’s European Le Mans Series. Last year he also contested several rounds of the Intercontinental GT Open.
Coletti takes over from Jean-Karl Vernay, who had been named as Romeo Ferraris ETCR driver before defecting to join Hyundai Motorsport earlier this year.
“We will be involved in PURE ETCR in 2021 as a full constructor, rather than in a customer racing position like in the past, and this entails greater responsibilities,” said Romeo Ferraris Operations Manager Michela Cerruti.
“The choice of drivers is never trivial and opting for Stefano is a very motivating move as we embark together on this new journey.
“He is a fast driver, very determined and still young in the world of tin-top car racing.
“This electric project is new for everybody and represents a great opportunity for all the players involved.”
Coletti acknowledged the faith put in him by Romeo Ferraris, given that he has no previous experience in touring car racing.
“I was very happy being called up for the season by Romeo Ferraris,” said Coletti. “The trust placed in me, despite having almost no experience with touring cars, makes me happy and gives me the motivation to do my best and repay the team for this opportunity.
“I thank Michela Cerruti and Mario Ferraris, because this kind of opportunity rarely comes in life.
“To be able to work closely with a constructor in the development of a new car is for sure a challenge, but we are not afraid and are actually boosted to go for great results.
“We are excited to take the track!”
The first round of PURE ETCR is scheduled to take place at Vallelunga in Italy on 18 – 20 June.
