source:
rocketsportsracing.com
Rocketsports Racing driver, Alex Tagliani, will take the No. 8
Rocketsports/Johnson Controls Lola to the track for the 2004 Champ Car World
Series.
Tagliani dropped the number 33, which he was given at the start of his Champ Car
career, for the favorable single digit and explained, "eight was the number I
chose for the first kart I raced as a kid. I've wanted to change my number for
some time and I'm glad the opportunity has come."
Tagliani revealed the Lola bearing his new number at the Champ Car Season
Premiere. The Champ Car also carried the names of returning associate sponsors
Microchip, Futaba and Montreal-based, Saputo.
In addition to a new number, Tagliani welcomed his new team mate, Nelson
Philippe, who will be driving the No. 17 Rocketsports/LeasePlan Lola. Tagliani
looks forward to working with the French Rookie, and benefiting from the
strength of a two-car outfit.
Earlier this season Rocketsports also welcomed engineer Brian Ma to take the
lead on Tagliani's Lola and engineer Alain Clarinval to Philippe's No.17 car. In
addition to adding a full new crew for the second car, the reputable, Robin
Hill, joined Rocketsports to serve as Crew Chief for both cars.
The second year Rocketsports team heads into the 2004 season armed with a year
of experience and the desire to compete that's stronger than ever. Rocketsports
drivers, Alex Tagliani and Nelson Philippe head to the first Champ Car event,
the Long Beach Grand Prix, on April 16-18, 2004 in southern California.