18.04.06 Niko finalises 2006 plans Niko Nurminen, driven in European long distance races in recent season's has finalize his schedule for forthcoming racing season. Last time on track Nurminen tasted speed of FIA GT Championship and during the winter time he continued negotiations for driving again with sports cars but unfortunatelly budget in these championship has grow over the possibilities. However, many interesting offers which Niko got after successful weekend at Oschersleben, was a truly positive surprise for him. " I got contacts from some professional and well-known teams, but naturally I should bring a huge amount of money to them for the deal. Anyway it was nice to see that people has noticed my performance in the FIA GT and hopefully my name is now more familiar in sports car field " Niko commented. Better fitted opportunity for Niko's budget was found from Germany's VLN championship. Thus Niko will start seriously to awesome Nürburgring Nordschleife circuit with familiar Honda Civic Type R race car. Car is prepared by successful Schmack Motorsport and now the team mates should be experienced and quick as well, so they can aim to top places in CUP3 -class. " I believe this one is the best choice from alternatives which I had after GT negotiations. Driving with very limited budget, it is important to choice team which can offer you a winningable car and team mates " Niko said Niko's contract contain three races, first one is four hour race on 20th of May. This race will be a good test opportunity for season's key event, international 24 hour race of Nürburgring which is on 17th and 18th of June. In this huge event, the team is aiming only to class victory. " Of course round the clock race will be demanding for car and crew, but team take their job seriously and I believe the preparation for this race is on right level. Winning the overall race of 24 hour require being a member of work team of BMW or Porsche, so the class victory is the most highest target for us " Niko told. After international 24 hour race Niko will start also to six hour race on 26th of August. << back to news