Philippe to drive for Eurointernational

UPDATE Eurointernational, the reigning Formula BMW Americas champions, is proud to announce that French rookie Wilson Philippe has joined the team for the 2009 season. He is a welcome addition to the squad in their bid to retain the crown they have held since 2006.

Philippe, who turns 16 in March, faces his first full season of motorsport competition as one of the few drivers who did not cut their teeth in go-karting. However, he is certainly no stranger to the world of racing. His two older brothers, Nelson and Richard, are well established in the racing world, the latter having secured the Formula BMW Americas title himself in 2005.

“I have been following my brothers careers my whole life, but wasn’t sure if I wanted to race myself. On my fifteenth birthday, I got my first taste behind the wheel of a racecar and from then on, I knew I wanted to keep racing," said Philippe when asked of his late start to racing. “Racing with an established team like Eurointernational should really help my learning curve. I haven’t set any specific goals for myself other than trying my best and having fun, but the team’s success speaks for itself!"

The success Philippe speaks of has never been more evident. In 2008 Eurointernational secured its third consecutive drivers championship on the back of 10 wins, and capped off a brilliant season with victory in the Formula BMW World Finals in Mexico City. Team owner Antonio Ferrari is excited to have Philippe in the line-up for 2009. “For us 2008 was a fantastic year and we are looking for more of the same in 2009. The team always looks for the best drivers to achieve these results. Wilson is an exciting young driver. Talent obviously runs in his family, and what he lacks in experience he makes up for in talent and determination. I am really looking forward to this partnership!"

Philippe eagerly awaits the first official series test, taking place February 16-17 at Palm Beach International Raceway. “It will be good to get to test with everyone to see where we stand," said Philippe. “But what I’m really looking forward to is that first race! Driving a Formula BMW is awesome, but racing it for the first time is going to be way more fun!"

Philippe will strap into his all-red WellBox sponsored ride for the first race at the series first visit to Puebla Raceway in Mexico on March 21-22.

01/19/09 Wilson Philippe (younger brother of Nelson and Richard) will drive for the Eurointernational team in the 2009 FBMW Americas Championship. With Alexander Rossi aboard the Eurointernational team won the Formula BMW Americas and World Cup titles in 2008.