Capello replaces Biela at Audi

Dindo Capello

Dindo Capello will return to the American Le Mans Series with the two-time LMP1 champion teaming with fellow Italian Emanuele Pirro at Lime Rock Park for next week’s American Le Mans Northeast Grand Prix. The July 12 race will be Capello’s first in the Series since taking P1 honors (and third overall) for Audi at Sebring.

The 44-year-old Capello is just three weeks removed from his third overall victory at Le Mans as he, Allan McNish and Tom Kristensen beat the odds and Peugeot on the French manufacturer’s home turf. Capello also has been a constant force behind the wheel of the diesel-powered R10 TDI; he and Frank Biela (whom Capello replaces) helped debut the car in January 2006 in its first public test at Sebring International Raceway.

It’s easy to find Capello’s name in the Series’ record book – just look toward the front. He has won more overall races (24) and LMP1 rounds (32) than any driver. The latter ranks him second all-time in victories only behind Corvette Racing’s Olivier Beretta.

Capello scored an overall victory at Lime Rock in 2006 as he and McNish retired Audi’s all-conquering R8 in fitting style. The pairing won in LMP1 last year but finished fifth overall. In his last 24 starts, Capello has won 18 times in class.

The defending Champion replaces five-time Le Mans winner and double ALMS Champion Frank Biela whose driver contract with AUDI AG is said to have only included only the races in the 2008 American Le Mans Series prior the Le Mans 24 Hours. Speculation is that he may retire.