Moreno makes history

The 47-year-old Brazilian, who raced in the series from 1985 to 2003 and has undertaken the development work of the brand-new Panoz chassis that will be used next year, drove a series of demonstration laps around the Zhuhai circuit.

Moreno, a two-time race-winner, lapped in 1:23.619 seconds - underneath the official lap record.

"I have driven in Macau before but I have never been to Zhuhai," said Moreno. "I think there is going to be a very exciting race here in May.

“The track has really fast straights and three very slow corners with wide braking zones. There will be plenty of places to pass and the facility is excellent shape.

"I hope I get a chance to race here."

ChampCar will have its first Chinese race on May 20th next year at Zhuhai.