Ferrari Challenge Italia
The Ferrari Challenge Pirelli Trophy is one of the most popular one-make series, in part because it brings together complete track novices and those who already have competition experience. The former have their own Shell Cup with a separate classification and final title, while the latter race in the Pirelli Trophy, also with a title up for grabs. This means there are no unequal contests and it makes for a better spectacle, with the experts providing exciting racing at a very high level and the gentlemen drivers are able to fight it out knowing they are all at the same level. This principal of equality means there are no unfair fights, while all competitors get the same treatment. Established in 1993 and now in its seventeenth year, the Ferrari Challenge is run as usual this year over three series (Italy, Europe and North America) with an overall final. It continues to offer a level playing field so competitors are well matched and all are treated equally.The large “Paddock Club” is like a village with all necessary conveniences and it provides a nerve centre where drivers can welcome their sponsors in a environment that lives up to their expectations. These facilities are also available to these same sponsors of the Challenge, some attracted by the series itself and others who prefer to link up with drivers. They are keen to be associated with a prestige marque and also enjoy the media coverage on TV, radio and in print media.
In the Challenge, everything is done to put drivers at their ease, with rules ensuring that Dealers and official preparation companies are the only ones authorised to enter cars. This rule has been in place since the very beginning of the Trophy and allows for greater transparency in the running of the series, that would not be possible with entries from outside the organisation. Events are always held at prestigious race circuits as part of a special event also run by Ferrari (Ferrari Racing Days) with the exception of a few that are run alongside top international events such as the A1GP or the FIA GT. Races, for the “Shell” and “Pirelli” drivers are run over two legs: one on Saturday and the other on Sunday. As from the 2009 season, races will be run over 35 minutes plus one lap, with a single qualifying session, split into two 21 minute segments, with an 8 minute technical break in the middle, to decide the grid for Race 1, while the grid for Race 2 will be decided on the fastest lap classification in race 1. Already, as from 2008, a change of driver was no longer allowed and in the case of crews made up of two drivers, each will take part in one race. The classification is based on the total of the two results. New this year, the introduction of a rolling start, according to new FIA regulations, the introduction of the Team Cup and of special “GT” prizes for the winners of the Pirelli Trophy and the Shell Cup. Younger drivers have also been catered for, with a reduction on the entrance fee.
All drivers still face a sporting contest that has traditionally operated at a very high standard, with the races proving to be closely contested from start to finish. The Pirelli Trophy features well known drivers who tackle the challenge to raise their profile and that of the Concessionaire that enters them. But there are also some very young racers with a bit of experience, who hope that the Challenge and the famous name that is Ferrari will provide a springboard to a successful future. This has often proved to be the case. The “Shell” races also provide close competition between the gentlemen racers of all ages and various levels of experience.