The fourth round of the Ferrari Challenge delivered thrilling action in the Czech Republic, where last weekend’s race was held at the Brno circuit, marking the halfway point of the championship. Over the 5.4 km of the Czech track, the Ferraris from the Pirelli Trophy, Coppa Shell, and Coppa Shell AM categories battled under grey skies. And just like in the iconic Doors song, our drivers were true “Riders on the storm”: determined and unstoppable, even under heavy rain.
The rewards didn’t take long to come: Hirsiger claimed his fifth consecutive win, accompanied by a double podium for Gostner.
Race 1
Fantastic start for Felix Hirsiger, who launched off the grid and clocked the fastest lap (1’57”918), taking control of the first Pirelli Trophy race and never letting go until the checkered flag. His fifth consecutive victory consolidates his lead in the overall standings.
At the end of the race, his words were filled with emotion: “An incredible start allowed me to take the lead and the win. Thank you all, it’s truly amazing!”
A less lucky start in the Coppa Shell, which began behind the Safety Car due to intermittent rain, but Manuela Gostner (Ineco – Reparto Corse RAM) remained unfazed, securing a well-deserved second place. It was a more challenging race for Zois Skrimpias, who despite his determination, had to settle for seventh position.
The weather also impacted Germana Tognella and Shintaro Akatsu in the Coppa Shell AM, but both remained focused and finished with a positive mindset: fifth place for Germana, sixth for Shintaro. A race that showcased great character, despite the relentless rain.
Race 2
The rain showed no mercy on Sunday either, as the second race day unfolded under even gloomier skies.
In the Pirelli Trophy, Felix Hirsiger remained a central figure. After leading a hard-fought race, he was overtaken only in the final minutes, finishing in second place. He still leads the overall standings with a 13-point advantage.
Another second-place finish for Manuela Gostner in the Coppa Shell, which now puts her at the top of the championship standings with a seven-point lead. A result that rewards her determination and the strength of the team.
It was a slightly tougher race for Germana Tognella in Race 2 of the Coppa Shell AM, as she finished in tenth position. Shintaro Akatsu dropped just one place compared to Saturday, crossing the line in seventh.
All eyes are now on the next round: the Ferrari Challenge will return to the track from June 26 to 29 at the Ricardo Tormo circuit in Valencia, for another adrenaline-packed and fiercely competitive weekend!