The ‘Maserati GT2’ won its first victory on June 6 (local time) at the ‘2024 Pirelli GT2 European Series Championship.’
The heroes of this historic win are Leonardo Gorini and Carlo Tamburini from the season opener round 1 held at the Paul Ricard Circuit. Maserati also secured a podium finish in the subsequent round, held in France, where Philippe Prette finished third in the LP Racing team’s second car.
Starting from pole position after setting the fastest time in qualifying, the Maserati GT2 #1 maintained the lead despite the attacks from competitors during the first 50-minute race, claiming victory. In contrast, the #2 Maserati driven by Prette initially secured second place but dropped in ranking due to an accident. Nevertheless, after a fierce chase, Prette finished the race in ninth place overall, securing third in the Am Cup category. Alexandre Leroy from the TFT Racing Team, the third Maserati GT2 in the same class that participated in the race last weekend, recorded a seventh-place finish overall.
In race 2, Philippe Prette’s Maserati GT2 secured an overall third place, winning the Am Cup. Gorini and Tamburini’s other LP Racing car again claimed pole position but lost the lead after a few laps. After a mandatory pit stop, the #1 car was relegated in rankings but put up a great fight for victory, yet unfortunately slipped to 13th place after contact in the penalized lap (the last lap). Alexandre Leroy finished sixth overall, achieving third place in the Am Cup category.
Meanwhile, the next round of the ‘2024 Pirelli GT2 European Series Championship’ is scheduled to take place in Misano, Italy from May 17 to 19.
Giovanni Signor Maserati Corse Director expressed, “The debut of the Maserati GT2 at the 2024 Pirelli GT2 European Series was simply fantastic! Last weekend’s race at the Paul Ricard Circuit exceeded all expectations. Two pole positions, a victory in race 1 and a third place in race 2 showcase this car’s outstanding performance and true competitiveness in the series. The track is a tradition and home for Maserati. Racing has always been part of Maserati’s DNA since the brand was established. The Maserati GT2 is the ideal model that transforms an extraordinary product like the Maserati MC20 into a perfect racing car, allowing it to shine on the track. I’m thrilled to introduce our customers to a distinctive vehicle that embodies exceptional performance and cutting-edge technology. The victory of the Maserati GT2 in the GT Championship marks the beginning of a new era for Maserati, positioning the brand as a leading player in the motorsports sector.”
Izangjin daedusj@autodiary.kr