I'm glad technology is not all about launches of gadgets and disputes over supremacy in several dedicated segments. It is also about racing... Consequently, Advanced Micro Devices, the second worldwide leader on the processor market segment, has just announced it will sponsor the Team Ferrari Silicon Valley, as the leading drivers are to enter into an all-new racing team - the American Le Mans Series (ALMS), becoming the Official Technology Partner of the Scuderia Ferrari Formula One team.

"Both AMD and Ferrari share a passion for innovation, competition and excellence," said Bill LaRosa, corporate vice president, North America, AMD. "Technology is at the forefront of motorsports. As a technology leader headquartered in the Silicon Valley, and in line with our Ferrari technological partnership in Formula One, we are excited to support Ferrari's role in ALMS and the Ferrari of Silicon Valley Racing Team."

Recognized as the world's premier sports car Championship, ALMS is said to have one of the richest racing traditions in motor sports, including the 24 hours of Le Mans. Silicon Valley and R. Ferri Competizione will compete in seven ALMS events in North America, beginning with Lime Rock (July 1st)and including Salt Lake (July 15), Portland (July 23), Road America (August 20), Mosport (September 3), Petit Le Mans (September 30) and Laguna Seca (October 21).

Giacomo Mattioli, the owner of the Ferrari teams, said that they are recognized as being leaders since 1994, beginning with the Ferrari Challenge Series. "Ferrari has always been known for its high performance, high technology and successful racing ventures," said Mattioli. "We've stepped up to ALMS because it is the most prestigious and competitive professional sport car racing in the U.S., and we know we have the abilities to compete on the highest of levels."

Team Silicon Valley will begin its 2006 season at Lime Rock with two European drivers, Toni Markus Vilander of Kankaanpaa, Finland and Ralf Kelleners of Dusseldorf, Germany. And now some background regarding the main drivers. Vilander holds six wins in Italian F3 racing and numerous Italian Championship podium spots. He began racing karts in 1987 and earned "best Rookie" driver in 2002 for the Italian Championship, having placed 2nd at both Magione and Mugello that year

On the other hand, Kelleners is a three time "Touring Car" European champion and a past winner of the 24 Hours of Le Mans GT2 class. While racing Ferraris he has earned several podium spots in the Rolex 24 at Daytona, as well as the "fastest qualifying lap" in a Ferrari 333 SP. Kelleners has been racing since 1986.