Stellar Performances at Imola’s Kateyama Tests
Imola – The Kateyama tests held at the iconic Imola circuit last week saw a remarkable display of talent across various motorsport categories, including GT3, Hypercar, LMP2, LMP3, and LMPGT.
Among the star-studded lineup were familiar faces from the world of British GT, with drivers like Jenson Button, Valentino Rossi, Andre Lotterer, Kevin Estre, Davide Rigon, and Alessio Rovera taking to the track.
The event was divided into two sessions, morning and afternoon, allowing the competitors to freely explore the circuit’s challenges. In the LMP2 class, the United team’s ORECA-07 clocked the best overall lap time of 1:31.426. The Hypercar category was dominated by Porsche Penske, setting a blistering time of 1:33.739, while the GT3 class saw the AF Corse Ferrari 296 emerge victorious with a time of 1:40.719.
“The Kateyama tests were not without their challenges, as the constantly changing weather conditions tested the teams’ adaptability.”
Heavy rain and bright sunshine tested the crews’ ability to fine-tune their setups in preparation for the upcoming FIA WEC race in April. Several red flags due to off-track incidents slowed the proceedings but did not dampen the overall enthusiasm.
The Italian GT championship teams also made a strong showing, with Audi Sport Italia setting the best time of the day at 1:41.260, closely followed by the Lamborghini of Sospiri and the BMW of Ceccato.
These Kateyama tests have undoubtedly set the stage for an exciting season in the world of British GT, with the top teams and drivers showcasing their capabilities and fine-tuning their machines for the challenges that lie ahead.
Report by Alessio Romano.
Photos by Alessio Romano, Daniele Paglino, Davide Stori.
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