Jani believes A1GP title wide open

A1 Team Switzerland’s Neel Jani believes last season’s A1GP championship victory will count for nothing when it comes to its pursuit of the 2008/09 crown. Jani and the Swiss eventually emerged victorious following a year-long title scrap, receiving plaudits worldwide for their speed and determination. However, with everyone switching to the new A1GP Powered by Ferrari car this season, Jani believes that any advantage gained last season is effectively neutralised. The 24-year-old has yet to be officially confirmed to return, but he has publicly said that he wants to help Switzerland defend its title.

“The new A1GP Powered by Ferrari car looks great, and it will be quick with the extra downforce it should have," Jani told A1GP.com from a fitness training camp in Switzerland.

“The car is new, the tyres are new – everything is new. So all the teams are at zero and everyone starts again."

“Every team has the same chance. But the team and driver which find the little tricks on the car first will be victorious, just like A1 Team France did in the first season of A1GP."

“It will be the same this season, but if several teams do that it will be a very interesting championship."

Jani would not be drawn on who was his favorite for the championship, however, which begins with A1GP Mugello, Italy on September 21.

“The level of competition will raise again in A1GP, as it has done every year, from both a team and technical point of view and driver wise. But it is very hard to say which way it will go," he added.