Kart star’s return to the Coast

TWO-TIME karting world champion Paolo De Conto has confirmed he will defend his Race of Stars trophy next month in a major boost to Gold Coast 600 preparations.

On event debut last year, the Italian overcame fellow internationals Davide Fore and Marijn Kremers to win a thrilling final at the Xtreme Karting Complex in Pimpama.

De Conto has been in top form since and sealed his second straight world championship last weekend in Germany.

“Just like last year, my first race as world champion is going to be in Australia,” said the 25-year-old.

“I’m very much looking forward to the Race of Stars again. The Gold Coast was very beautiful and I can’t wait to be back there next month.”

He will again drive for the CRG Australia team for the October 13-15 event, one weekend before Supercars and other motorsport categories light up the streets of Surfers Paradise for the GC600.

“Working with Paolo for the first time at last year’s Race of Stars was an incredible experience,” CRG Australia team manager Darren King said.

“His performance on the track was amazing but so too was the way in which he conducted himself off of it. He was a great ambassador.”