A1GP Team South Africa recalls Alan van der Merwe

A1 Team South Africa will have a different race driver for the first time in 35 races at Brands Hatch this weekend, after the team recalled Alan van der Merwe. Regular driver Adrian Zaugg has made himself unavailable for selection this weekend, choosing instead to compete in the World Series by Renault round in Belgium, where he could challenge for the championship.

Van der Merwe has been capped by the team eight times before, however, it was Zaugg’s run of success that meant van der Merwe fell out of favor with the South African team.

It brings to an end the highest consecutive run of races currently in A1GP, with Zaugg stringing together the last 34 starts, across three seasons. Ironically, it was van der Merwe who was the previous incumbent of Vulindlela, last racing for the team in Shanghai more than two years ago.

“It’s the best news I’ve had in a long time," said van der Merwe. “It’s a brilliant opportunity and quite unexpected. I’m really looking forward to driving the new A1GP Powered by Ferrari car.

“I know Brands Hatch well from Formula Ford and Formula Three, and hope I can help South Africa improve its position in the championship this weekend."

A1 Team South Africa general manager Mike Carroll said he was happy somebody of van der Merwe’s talents was available.

“Adrian has our full support," said Carroll. “But we’re delighted to have secured the services of an experienced driver like Alan at such short notice.

“He already has eight A1GP races for South Africa under his belt and has a good racing knowledge of Brands Hatch."