09/29/2009
After the thrills of the sixth round, at the Algarve Circuit in Portugal, the situation could hardly be closer, in both GT1 and GT2, and the battle looks sure to go down to the final chequered flag. But could the long straights and tricky corners of the Paul Ricard HTTT circuit create some surprises?
The results in the Algarve have been put the French drivers in the limelight before their home races. James Ruffier, the reigning FIA GT3 European Champion, took his first-ever FIA GT win, driving alongside Bert Longin in the Corvette Z06 (Selleslagh Racing Team). As for GT2, Emmanuel Collard finished second with Richard Westbrook, in the Prospeed Competition Porsche 997 GT3 RSR, to take the points lead in the Drivers Classification. In GT1, the points could not be closer. Bertolini and Bartels, driving the Vitaphone Maserati MC 12, are on equal points with Hezemans and Kumpen, in the Pekaracing Corvette Z06.
Two Ford GT cars will be on the grid: the Marc VDS Racing car of Leinders and Kuppens, up against the Matech GT Racing car, which will see Thomas Mutsch joined by 2007 FIA GT3 European Champion Henri Moser. The Paul Ricard will see the return of one of the legends of the FIA GT Championship: the Ferrari 550 Maranello, entered by Ange Barde and Solution F, which will be shared by Barde and former F1 driver Olivier Panis. The Ferrari has won 23 GT1 races since it joined the Championship in 2000, including three Drivers titles. A legendary GT car, making what is likely to be its final appearance in the Championship...
With the FIA GT3 European Championship, FFSA French GT Championship and Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo also taking part, there will be non-stop action on the track and off !
Come to the Paul Ricard HTTT on October 3rd and 4th to watch these fantastic races and enjoy a weekend in the heart of an international competition. The spectators will also be able to meet national heroes such as James Ruffier, Olivier Panis, Emmanuel Collard, Fabien Barthès and Stéphane Ortelli, attending the autograph sessions. Spectators will also have access to try out F1 simulators, go karting, visit a car exhibition, souvenir shop... something for everyone guaranteed!
Booking : click here
Photo : DPPI
