Good morning all,
It seems that the sun will shine here at Silverstone for three days in a row, unusual for England. In the pit lane, the FIA GT cars are already preparing for the second free practice stint before tackling the qualifying session in the afternoon. Yesterday, both the Ferrari Challenge and the GT3 timed sessions were run. In the Challenge series, an exciting Trofeo Pirelli race is expected as at least six or seven drivers are in with a real chance of victory in a 26 car grid. The European championship, on the other hand, should be a head-to-head between Ferrari and Porsche, with the F430 Challenge GT3 appearing to have the edge over its German adversary.
A large crowd will pack the stands and there are many events to keep them entertained, including an exhibition put on by helicopters from the British marines. The most striking thing is the different approach the English have to motor-racing: here it is an occasion for the whole family and not seen simply as a ‘sport’. Testimony to this is that a fun fair has been erected behind the paddock! The entire race weekend is to be enjoyed here, not just the two hours that the cars are on the track.
Take a look at the Corse Clienti site for all the news, results and images from the day while behind the scenes insights and comments on the outcome of the race can be found later on this blog.
PS, I have found out that live television coverage of the FIA GT will be provided by the many european TV channel. You should not miss tomorrow’s events as our F430 will be fighting it out it in GT2. The GT1 race, though Ferrari will be absent, will also be a gripping one as Maserati, Aston Martin, Saleen and Corvette tussle for top spot.