Ferrari Challenge – Thomas Neubauer in the Sprint

The Ferrari Challenge race to open the 24 Hours of Le Mans was unfortunately limited to a procession behind the Safety Car.

Published on 10/06/2023 à 10:12

Gautier Calmels

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Ferrari Challenge – Thomas Neubauer in the Sprint

A prestigious victory for Thomas Neubauer © Ferrari Races

The great circuit of 24 Hours of Le Mans was treated this morning to a prestigious opening with the fourth round of the season Ferrari Challenge Europe. The 70 drivers from the different categories took to the track just a few hours before the start of the centenary edition of the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

A beautiful setting for the Ferrari Challenge © Ferrari Races

The Safety Car unfortunately had to be deployed after only 9 minutes of racing. Neutralization was inevitable after a crash between Mulsanne and Indianapolis following a tire explosion. Damaged barriers, the race was neutralized for a long time but fortunately was able to be restarted for 1 lap, which allowed Thomas Neubauer to win under the checkered flag rather than under yellow flags.

The qualifying session allowed Neubauer (Charles Pozzi GT Racing) to take the coveted pole position in the Trofeo Pirelli, while Manuela Gostner (CDP – MP Racing) set the best time in the Coppa Shell.

For the 35 minutes of racing, we expected an Italian-French battle in the main category of the Ferrari Challenge, with Thomas Neubauer, reigning champion of the category, facing the current European leader in the standings Eliseo Donno. Neubauer made two perfect takeoffs, immediately taking a few steps ahead so as to never be worried.

Ferrari Challenge Race Ranking

Gautier Calmels

Journalist MotoGP, Nascar, Rallye France, Endurance and Classic... Among others.

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