August 23, 2012
Published on tags: Superleague
Midnight Motorsport reserve driver and Supercup series title contender Alex Cooper looks set to make his debut for the title winning outfit at this evening's Dutch GP around the challenging Zandvoort circuit.

The team confirmed that Cooper would participate in place of owner/driver Nick Rowland, who has had to withdraw from the event for previously undisclosed reasons. The move comes as a surprise given Rowland's positioning within this season's championship battle.

Whilst he is not at risk of losing his second place in the championship to his rivals, the Brit has remained a contender for championship honors following two victories and a season long battle with teammate Lukas Euler. Whilst the substitution does not rule him out of the championship hunt, it does ensure that the task becomes increasingly difficult, assuming Euler carries his recent form into the upcoming event.

Cooper, who has impressed many with his form and commitment throughout the 2012 season will be looking to bring home solid points for the team on his debut, acting Team Manager Dave Carr-Smith insisted that there was no pressure on Cooper to achieve a specific result, despite the team's achievements throughout the 2012 season.

"Firstly we're thrilled to be able to give Alex a chance to compete in a full weekend in a car that he has worked so hard towards building with the team. You only have to look at the statistics to see the dedication and commitment he has contributed to the team, alongside his ever successful campaign in the Supercup for our sister team.

Whilst we hope that Alex achieves a strong result tomorrow, that is purely from us wanting to see him do well for himself on his debut, there is no pressure from the team on that front. We have already secured the Constructor's Championship, our sole remaining goal for this season remains the Driver's Championship for one of our two drivers."

Cooper meanwhile, whilst apprehensive given the short notice associated with the decision, is looking forward to getting behind the wheel of a Superleague car for the full duration of an event after a season spent in the role of reserve driver, watching on as his teammates made use of the fastest car on the grid.

Team Owner, and driver, Nick Rowland was naturally disappointed at the prospect of having to miss the Dutch GP, but appeared pleased with the opportunity to give Cooper his break in the top class.

"It is with great sadness that I have had to withdraw from the Dutch GP at this late stage. Due to pressing family matters this is something that could not have been avoided and it is of course something that will put strain on my own championship bid. Lukas has had his share of bad luck and now it strikes me just at the wrong time.

I do however take great pride in being able to give Alex this opportunity. He more than deserves a shot at a Superleague race and this has come somewhat unexpectedly for him. I wish him and the team the absolute best for the race and will be thinking of them and look forward to hearing the race report upon return.

As for my title prospects, my bid may have been dented but I hope that I can still continue to battle for the championship and give my team mate a good run for his money."