2025 Le Mans LMGT3 Postscript

As move over Jacky Ickx, Thars’ a new six times class winner!

 

According to Daily sports Car’s post race report, the No. 92 Manthey 1st Form Porsche 911GT3 R claimed a dominating victory over the second place No. 21 Vista AF Corse Ferrari 296 GT3.

 

Hurriedly scribbling sometime during the final 90mins, the No. 92 led last portion of race, winning LMGT3 for second year in-a-row. Jotting down the finishing order below, presumably during the final hourly update.

 

LMGT3: #92-21-81-27-87-90

 

Seeing the aforementioned first two finishers followed by TF Sport’s Chevrolet Corvette Z06.R; Heart of Racing Team’s Aston Martin Vantage; Akkodis Asp’s Lexus RC F and the second Manthey Porsche 911 R. (992 model)

 

Whilst I simply couldn’t resist the quote from Richard Lietz, part of Manthey’s winning driver trio.

 

“First of all, you have to be very old to be able to win six times! I am lucky enough to be here for the 19th time with Porsche, always as a factory driver. And basically every year since 2007, it has been really good to me.”

 

“Le Mans with six victories is incredible. And it’s the first time back-to-back. Manthey last year trusted me: I was kind of at the end of my driver career, towards the end, and I was thinking of stopping, and then they said, like, I have to come back. So now, two years later, two more Le Mans victories.”

(Source: dailysportscar.com)

 

Lietz’s six class victories at Circuit de la Sarthe were in  2007, 2010, 2013, 2022, 2024-2025. Being joined this year by Ryan Hardwick and Riccardo Pera, being familiar with Lietz and Hardwick’s names. As Hardwick came upon my radar when winning the 2022 Rolex 24 GTD class for Wright Motorsports.

 

Whilst I was unaware that He’d won the 2023 European Le Mans Series (ELMS) LMGTE and 2025 FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) LMGT3 class titles.

 

Funniest bit is Lietz’s quip about having to be really old to win so many times, with Hardwick being some three years, two weeks older if I’ve done my ryth-huh-tickin’ correctly? (Hardwick’s currently 45 years old) With Pera being the young whippersnapper of this trio at just 26.

 

Another name I recognized was Charlie Eastwood, who finished third aboard the TF Sport Corvette, who also competes for EXDT Racing in IMSA GTD competition.

 

While I’ve long been a fan of The Heart of Racing Team since it’s Team Seattle days supporting Seattle’s Childrens Hospital, spearheaded by Ian James. Although now based in Phoenix, AZ and having switched from Porsche 911’s to becoming Aston Martin’s Werks Hypercar operation in both the WEC and IMSA GTP.

 

The No. 27 Aston Martin Vantage started on pole, but James and Zacharie Robichon, both longtime IMSA competitors were part of the car finishing fourth, along with Mattia Drudi. As Robichon won the 2021 IMSA GTD championship for Pfaff Motorsports.

 

Ironically, just discovering that Robichon was part of that 2022 Wright Motorsports Rolex 24 GTD class winning quartet ‘O drivers. Alongside Hardwick, Lietz and Jan Van Hagar’ Heylen.

 

Although I know the name of the French Lexus race team, since I struggle on their spelling. Guessing fifth place is about what to expect from the long in the tooth Lexus racecar, with 2026 being its final season.

 

As I’m guessing that LMGT3 was largely overlooked, due to the excitement of the late LMP2 antics, and everybody focused upon that bright yellow No. 83 Ferrari 499P winning overall.

 

While are we really surprised it was another Porsche v Ferrari battle in LMGT3… 

2025 24 Heurs du Mans Postscript

Another race, another year. As does anybody remember las year’s outcome?

 

The 93rd running of le 24 Heurs du Mans had a different flavour for Mwah. Due to it also having a Formula 1 and IndyCar race running in parallel with this iconic Sports Car event.

 

After getting up early Sunday morning for the last 90mins of Le Mans, I “watched”, Err listened to the Canadian Grand Prix, since it was being aired live at 11AM Pacific on ABC. And then for dinner, the IndyCar race live from Gateway, nee Wide World Technology Raceway. (WWTR)

 

All of this after having attempted my yearly ritual of listening to half of the 24 Heurs du Mans Saturday, albeit interrupted by IndyCar and F1 qualifying – the nerve of them, Hya!

 

As what happened to the universe stopping for the 24 Hours of Le Mans, Eh? When Open Wheel Racing used to take this weekend off. As it seems a long time ago now when Nico Hulkenberg won at Circuit de la Sarthe on an “Off” weekend. Wayback in Gory 2015 when driving for Porsche, aboard it’s all conquering Porsche 919, Ja volt!

 

Having just realized that was the ten year anniversary of thee Incredible Hulkster’s Le Mans triumph…

 

And I was guessing El Capitano’, nee Roger Penske was in France overt the weekend collecting His one of a kind Porsche 963 RSP, the lone street legal 963 on the planet! Built 50 years after that “One-off”, insane Porsche 917K Street Car for Count Gregorio Rossi di Montelera of the Martini company. Having raced the car once in 1971, before returning to the factory for road use conversion!

 

Porsche Debuts the 963 RSP, a One-off Racecar for the Street

 

Briefly  noted the NO. 88 Proton Mustang had big “Off” early in race. Right rear damage/wheel. Think it retired?

 

Porsche 963 plays leapfrog with Ferrari 499P’s during early portion of race.

 

First left for F1 qualifying. Then IndyCar Qualie’ at Gateway, where DJ WillyP’ claimed pole. Being Will Power’s 71st and latest pole position.

 

11.5 hours in; the No. 24 Nielsen Racing LMP2 had big wreck. With full course, three safety cars yellow flag for nearly 40 Freakin’ minutes, including repairing barriers at Tete Rouge.

 

Sadly, at half race distance, the Wayne Taylor Racing (WTR) #101 Cadillac V-Series.R (LMDH) Hypercar entry with Felipe Albuquerque at the wheel pulled off track and eventually retired. Being one of the IMSA GTP Prototypes competing.

 

Good, long interview with Wayne Taylor in middle of night, i.e.; 4AM-plus local time. As Wayne’s so pragmatic and cerebral when talking. Telling pitlane reporter Joe Bradley that the BRM in ’92 was the worst weekend ever at Le Mans! Later learning this was the BRM P351 for which they lasted only 20 laps, Youch!

 

With Wayne noting He’d done Le Mans 13 times. (1987-2002) Saying He was most proud of winning His class in the (Doyle-Risi Racing) Ferrari 333 SP. While His best race ever was ’96 when Le Mans had no chicanes on the Mulsanne straight like in Steve McQueen’s movie…

 

Also drove a Spice C1, NissanR390 GT1 and the Northstar Cadillac and various Porsche 962C’s. As Wayne noted none of His “guys” had been here before…

 

(8PM Pacific = 5AM France; Hour 13)

John Hindhaugh Cornfuzed Mwah by giving the current running order Arse-backwards, starting with GT3 runners. As I was expecting typical Hypercar-LMP2, then LMGT3 order, so I missed out on most of GT3 runners. Only managing to remember the No. 21 Vista AF Corse Ferrari 296 GT3 with Simon Mann was leading.

 

Then quickly jotted the following. LMP2: #43-199-18. Hypercar: #50-8-51. Meaning the Toyota was the meat in a Scuderia Ferrari sandwich, Hya!

 

And then I called it a “night” for listening to Le Mans, at the 13.5Hrs “mark”, with the Radio Le Mans Booth boyz’ noting there were still 12 Hypercars on the lead la.

 

Hurriedly typing the following during the “Hourly” report at 8:30PM Pacific. As I always enjoy noting the leaders before leaving the race to “See” who’s still leading come morning…

 

LMGT3: #81-21-92

LMP2: #199-28-48-43

Hypercar: #83-51-50-6-8-12

 

Then more of my scrambled, hurriedly scribbled, Err typed notes during final 90 minutes of race. Just missing the “Hourly” update which strangely were on the half hour, Huh? Quickly noting the following, since all of the Attenzione was on the leader of the race.

 

With just over one hour remaining, full course yellow for stranded United Autosport’s No. 59 Mclaren 720S GT3 Evo. Leaves the sharp end of the grid continuously rotating. As the No. 8 Toyota was in the lead, Huh?

 

Then with one hour remaining, jotted following for Hypercars: #83-51-6-50. Before Kevin Estre in the No. 6 Porsche Penske Motorsports Porsche 963 jumped the Ferrari’s, leaving the field of Hypercars as follows: #83-6-Fuoco-Giovinazzi, i.e.; #50-51 respectively, seeing three Ferrari’s of the race’s top four, Momma Mia!

 

Whilst the No. 43 Europol Dillmann-Yelloly entry led LMP2.

 

Then with 35+ mins remaining; #43 leading LMP2 issued drive-thru penalty for speeding in pit lane by Yelloly, Sheisa! As I was rootin’ for this entry to win, Sigh. Whilst the Hypercars category continued ricking over like a digital clock. With the order as follows: #51-83-6-50-12-7-5-38-4-35.

 

Ironically, four years ago, Robert Kubica, Yifei Ye and Louis Deletraz’s LMP2 leading No. 41 car ground to a halt  on the race’s final lap; losing class win to their Seester’ No. 31 Team WRT stablemate!

 

This year Kubica and Ye won overall. And Deletraz wins LMP2 Pro Am in “Spike-the-Dragon”. As AO by TF runs crowd favourite purple Dragon livery…

 

With thee Krakow Kid’, aka Robert Kubica and Yifei Ye becoming the first Polish and Chinese drivers to ever win Le Mans outright.

 

While Britain’s overlooked Phil Hansen rounds out the trio aboard the privateer No. 83 AF Corse Ferrari 499P scoring a Hat Trick for la Scuderia. Being Ferrari’s third consecutive victory in the Hypercar era.

 

Yet it was the LMP2 class where all the drama was occurring. With the #48 VDS Panis Racing having problem after taking the lead due to #43’s aforementioned Drive-thru penalty. Mechanical issue causes them to be some 18 seconds per lap slower, with the #43 reclaiming class win As Nick Yelloly redeems Himself by re-taking lead with some 20-odd minutes left! Seeing Yelloly cruise to chequered flag. Along with co-drivers Tom Dillmann and Kuba Smiechowski.

 

The No. 48 cruelly finished runner-up. With the No. 199 finishes third overall and winning the LMP2 Pro Am category. With team owner P. J. Hyett and Dane Cameron enjoying the spoils with Louie’ Deletraz. 

A Weekend of What Ifs?

When Fairytale endings don’t quite happen…

 

Cannot say the Long Beach weekend of IndyCar and IMSA racing was overly exciting. In truth, both races seemed exceedingly processional. Which perhaps was a biproduct of excessive marbling offline? Or the propensity of different rubber compounds being applied over the weekend?

 

Saturday’s Wat If naturally involved thee young Wicky’, aka Robert Wickens. With that nickname being indelibly ingrained thanks to who’s going by the handle Jimmy Hinge’ these days…

 

Everyone knows Robby’s story and life changing effects from that 2018 Pocono IndyCar incident. Thus how cool was it having Wickens claim His maiden IMSA pole position after the No. 89 Vasser Sullivan Racing Lexus RC F racecar was DQ’ed (Disqualified) for exceeding minimum ride height during post tech inspection.

 

Wickens not only led the race’s first 25 laps, but pulled out a healthy lead, in part to minimize the time loss of extracting Him from the cockpit during their first pitstop some 35+ minutes later. The minimum drive-time requirement.

 

It was interesting hearing Davey Hamilton of IndyCar Radio commenting on how Wickens has to switch hands on His specially adapted steering wheel hand Controlled Chevrolet Corvette Z06 GT3.R at Long Beach’s famous Hairpin turn. Assuring everyone its not easy! Which I thought was fascinating coming from another driver who’s been through the adversity of having some 20-plus foot operations!

 

And although the crew was ecstatic over their work of dragging Robby to the pit wall. Unfortunately co-driver Mason Filippi first ran into trouble with a GTP car. And then got roughed-up by the Turner Motorsports BMW with Robbie Foley at the wheel! Ultimately finishing sixth in the GTD class.

 

Listening to IMSA Radio Saturday afternoon, I first heard John Hindhaugh mention the rumours of Acura pulling its IMSA GTP programme at season’s end, Huh? But I’m getting ahead of myself…

 

Apparently Colin Brown had a massive shunt during Friday, necessitating the No. 60 Meyer Shank Racing Acura ARX-06B being completely rebuilt. While the Seester’ No. 93 claimed pole in the hands of Nick Yelloly.

 

And although the No. 93 lost the lead once in traffic, Yellowly and Renger van der Zande were victorious for Acura at their home race. The team’s first wins since Watkins Glen six hours Enduro’ last June, by the nO. 60. While the No. 93’s last victory was last year’s street race at Detroit. And Acura’s first win at Long Beach.

 

Felix-the-Cat’ (Rosenqvist) said it best Saturday after capturing His first IndyCar pole in two years, ironically also at Long Beach. Telling boss Mike Shank to soak it in, it doesn’t get much better than Y’all know. Isn’t that a beer slogan for somebody? And not Mike Shank’s favourite Busch lite, but I digress…

 

Winning the IMSA race from pole, having Green Day on His No. 60 IndyCar and also being on pole . For which we know the only blemish to the weekend was that solitary full course caution on lap 58. When the entire field pitted, and with a slight bobble and worse pit box selection after leading 51 of 58 laps. “The Surgeon” Alex Palou and His pit crew roared out ahead of Rosenqvist, Frick! And as IndyCar Radio pit reporter Ryan Marin said. Say Good Bye! With Palou winning again, Rosenqvist second and Scott Dixon third. With Honda sweeping the podium Sunday.

 

Suppose it should have been inevitable? With it being suggested that MSR will run the Honda Charter entry in 2028, giving them three cars in IndyCar.

 

And with Honda, Err Acura winning almost everything in IMSA recently. And the massive financial loss just incurred. Acura confirmed the rumour Wednesday, April 22nd they would “pause” their factory IMSA GTP programme at season’s end.

 

Interestingly, Honda HRC U.S. boss David Salters said Acura will beef-up its presence in IndyCar, with Marcus Armstrong’s No. 66 MSR entry now sporting Acura branding. Which previously had Spectrum listed as its primary sponsor for the 110th Indianapolis 500.

 

Whilst MSR said it will seek opportunites with other OEM partners for future IMSA participation, which may occur? I’m also reminded of Chip Ganassi Racing saying something similar after losing its service provider contract with Cadillac in IMSA GTP.

 

Scuttlebutt suggests the two MSR Acura ARX-06B’s most likely will end up in the Asian Le Mans Series newly created Hypercar category as true privateer efforts. While I’d forgotten that Sports Car regulations will “reset” in 2030, which could see an Acura/Honda return to top flight prototype racing?

 

Yet obviously, its always sad to have a manufacturer leave motor racing. And so much for celebrating Acura’s 40th birthday over the Long Beach weekend… 

MOTO GP: The Year of Marc Marquez

Although He didn’t survive the season unscathed…

 

The 2025 MotoGP season was largely ruled by Ye Pinball Wizard, aka Marc Marquez. Although you’d have to say it was split into two parts, i.e.; Pre-Japanese Grand Prix, and Post Japanese Grand Prix. As Motegi brought the inevitable High’s and Low’s to the current and former MotoGP World Champions.

 

This year’s dominant force was Marc Marquez. As the 32 year old Spaniard totally crushed the competition on His Factory Ducati. Winning an impressive total of 11 Grands Prix races. Along with six Sprint race wins and eight poles.

 

As Marquez made His intentions known early, storming out of the gate. Scoring two straight “Clean” sweep weekends in Thailand and Argentina, i.e.; claiming pole and winning both Sprint and Grand Prix races. Before coming up short at the Circuit Of The Americas, (COTA) crashing out of Sunday’s U.S. Grand Prix; round 3 of 22. After claiming pole and winning the Sprint race in Austin.

 

Marquez stamped His authority upon this year’s title by reeling off seven straight Grands Prix wins. From Motorland Aragon in Spain, to the Balaton Park Circuit in Hungary. (Rounds 8-14) Spanning from June 8th to August 24^th

 

Marquez’s points lead was so commanding that He clinched the title when finishing runner-up at Motegi, behind His shrinking violet Ducati teammate Francesco Bagnaia, with five races remaining.

 

As Bagnaia finished fifth overall, 257 points adrift of Marquez. (545-288) With Marc’s younger brother Alex Marquez, Marco Bezzechi and Pedro Costa sandwiched in-between Him standings wise.

 

Whilst Marc Marquez’s championship triumph was short lived. As the Spainard was involved in a crash with Marco Bezzecchi at Indonesia a week later, suffering a broken right collarbone, the same side as His famous arm injuries. With Doctors discovering during surgery that He’d twisted some titanium screws in the arm! As Ye Pinball Wizard eventually sat out the rest of the season recovering…

 

On the opposite end of the spectrum was reigning MotoGP Champion Jorge Martin, whose debutante season for Aprilia can only be described as a Nightmare! Beginning by crashing only an hour into Pre-season testing at Sepang! Breaking His right Hand and fracturing His left Foot, Yikes!

 

Then on the Monday preceding the season opening round in Thailand, Jorge crashed again. This time breaking His left Hand, forced to sit out the first three round, before making His Aprilia debut at Qatar.

 

Yet this debut seemed rushed, as thee Martinator’ definitely wasn’t 100% physically recovered, and disaster struck again! As Jorge lost control of His Scooter’ with Fabio di Giantonnio having nowhere to go, striking Martin. With Jorge suffering eleven broken ribs and a collapsed lung!

 

Martin did little to endear Himself to the team, announcing He planned to leave early, foregoing the second year of His contract due to lack of performance, before ultimately rescinding this  claim during His Qatar injury recovery.

 

Martin returned to action at the Czech Grand Prix on July 20th, (Round 12) before suffering His latest setback. Having collided with Aprilia teammate Marco Bezzecchi at Turn-1 of the Sprint race’s start atMotegi, suffering a broken collarbone.

 

Martin made His seventh Grands Prix weekend start at the season finale in Valencia. Where He served a double long-lap penalty for causing the Motegi collision with Bezzecchi. Before retiring at halfway distance due to lack of physical stamina.

 

Meanwhile, Bezzecchi’s year aboard Aprilia has gone the polar opposite’s of Martin’s. With the Italian celebrating His 27th birthday at Velencia claiming His third MotoGP victory of the season. Having won seven days prior at Portimoa, along with His earlier win at Silverstone.

 

Bezzecchi secured third in the final points standings, and presumably leaves Martin looking over His shoulder, as the Italian becomes Aprilia’s top hope? Whilst Raul Fernandez would likely be “Next Man Up” at Aprilia, since Honda supposedly hasn’t completely closed the door on Martin joining in 2027.

 

Trackhouse Racing’s (Raul) Fernandez scored His maiden MotoGP win Down Under at Phillip  Island (Australia) enroute to finishing 10th overall. While rookie teammate Ai Ogura impressed early season, before ultimately finishing P16 overall.

 

The only other rider with multiple wins were Peco’ Bagnaia winning twice, i.e.; Austin and Motegi. While Alex Marquez finished runner-up overall to brother Marc on the back of three wins aboard the satellite Gresini Duc’. Taking wins at Jerez, Barcelona and Sepang.

 

Alex’s teammate, rookie Fermin Aldeguer won convincingly in Indonesia. With Johann Zarco taking a solitary win at Home on the Le Mans circuit aboard His Castrol LCR Honda in wet weather conditions…

 

Thus three riders scored their debutante MotoGP victories this year, i.e.; Alex Marquez, Raul Fernandez and Fermin Aldeguer.

 

As that’s only the Grands Prix Sunday races, since I’m sure others won some of the Sprint races. Yet as always, Ducati claimed the Lion’s share, with a total of 17 Grands Prix W’s. Followed by four wins from Aprilia and a single win for Honda. Which presumably will continue next year, before the next major regulation change in 2027.

 

As Marc Marquez becomes tied with thee Doctor, aka Valentino Rossi and the great Giacomo Agostini win seven World Championships apiece in the premiere GP500/MotoGP category. And you’d have to say odds favour Marquez winning His eighth title next year… 

ROLEX 24: 2023 Qualifying Recap

As so much for a Quiet “Buildup” to the Race’s Main Event!

 

Strange, how much another elongated Offseason can make you suddenly Crave some Motor Racing, Eh? Since it had only been just over Two and-a-Half months since I’d last “watched,” Err listened to the (2022) Brazilian Grand Prix Wayback’ on November 13th. While I won’t even belabour How Stupendously long Indy Cars Off season is! Seriously, One Half of a Gory Year, Yikes!

 

Thus for Humour, I decided to try seeing if I could pull-up Friday’s second practice session via Ye Intrawoods’, nee internet, which I did via IMSA Radio. And it was G-R-R-R-Reat! Hearing John Hindhaugh’s voice once again. Whose definitely my Numero Uno Announcer!

 

Then I listened to Sunday’s Qualifying session in it’s entirety, including the extra 20mins “Warm-up” session for the GTP runners preceding Qualifying. As I’m really not sure why they needed the extra 20mins? But IMSA seemed overly intent on giving them every opportunity to work out potential Bugs prior to Thar maiden race outing…

 

First out was All 33 GTD racers, i.e.; GTD Pro and GTD, for which the first four positions were filled by Mercedes-AMG GT3 Evo racecars! With the No. 57 Winward Racing entry with Philip Ellis taking the overall Pole. As three GTD Mercs’ led the way, with the “Heinz 57” followed by the #32 Team Korthoff Motorsports and #75 SunEnergy1 Racing entries ahead of the fastest GTD Pro entry in P4, the No. 79 WeatherTech Racing entry.

 

Next up in what seemed sort of stupid! Like why couldn’t they have combined the LMP2 and LMP3 categories together? Yet instead the LMP3 Class got 15mins alone. In what became a massive back “n forth Scrum for Pole. Which finally went to 18yr Old Chilean Nico Pino in the No. 33 Sean Creech Motorsports Ligier. Which was Pino’s Debutante Pole position.

 

Ditto for the LMP2 Class, having 15mins on the Day-Toner’ High banks All to themselves. As Ben Keating in the #52 PR1/ Mathiasen Motorsport entry took Pole ahead of His Arch-nemesis Steven Thomas in the #11 TDS Racing entry, which includes Rinus VeeKay.

 

As I enjoyed Keating’s Aw Shucks I’m Talkin’ Smack Texas Drawl during the Pole winner’s interview. With Keating claiming that Thomas wouldn’t let Him go ahead of Him ON-track, so He just used Him for a “Tow” to Claim Pole!

 

But the Big News was the massive crash that Tower Motorsports No. 8’s Team Boss John Farano suffered at the Bus Stop Chicane. To which Keating said He wasn’t surprised by. Noting that the first two days they’d had a 10mph Headwind which Had suddenly switched to a 20mph Tailwind there!

 

Yet Farano wasn’t the only driver to crash at the Bus Stop. As it was kinda Funny Hearing Hindhaugh muse how Nick Tandy in the No. 6 Porsche Penske Motorsport’s 963 was the first to Officially Crash a GTP entry during Thar 20mins Qualie’ session.

 

As Tandy was supposedly on a Flyer that was headed towards Pole before losing the car Arse-sumedly due to the Mega’ Tailwind, bringing out the Day’s second Red Flag. Followed by Tom “the Bomb” Blomqvist in Meyer Shank Racin’g #60 Acura ARX-06 claiming Pole position on a single lap “Flyer!”

 

Obviously both of these Prototype chassis were completely rebuilt before practice kicked off four days later. When unfortunately  things got serious during Thursday morning’s first practice session before the race.

 

As Lucas Auer lost control of the No. 57 Windward Racing’s GTD Pole sitting Mercedes and Slammed Head-on into a Concrete Wall, writing off the Mercedes!

As Auer had to be extracted thru the roof hatch with major injuries to His Back.

 

As later that night I caught Racer’s Video recap with Marshall Pruett, Graham Goodwin and Sebastien Bourdais. With Bourdais saying it looked like a compression fracture to Him, albeit it wouldn’t be as Bad as His Nasty Accident at Mother Speedway since you’re at least sitting upright in the GTD Cars…

 

As this Had to be the story of the eventual race for Mwah. When the Winward Racing team amazingly got it’s spare Mercedes-AMG GT3racecar out to Daytona from it’s Houston Shop

Lickidly Split! As I thought I’d heard that the team’s Spotter – Who also serves as it’s (Semi) Hauler’s Driver had flown back to Houston. And then drove the team’s spare chassis to Daytona. For which the backup chassis happened to be a previous race winner.

 

As GT4 racer David Morad substituted for Auer, who reportedly broke His Back.

 

As Auer is the nephew of somebody named Gerhard Berger, who you may recall once was a Ferrari and McLaren Formula 1 Driver. Along with previously owning some racing series called DTM.

 

As here’s a No Fenders tome I scribbled about Herr Berger a long, long time ago…

 

http://www.nofenders.net/2008/07/bit-berger.html

 

As the Winward’s Fairytale Dream of redemption came up just 35 minutes short! After having been forced to start last in the GTD Field due to replacing it’s entry, the team ran as far as second in class for periods of time. But then on a final restart it All went Pear Shape! As Pilip Ellis who was trying to pass the GTD Pro Corvette for a shot at the eventual winning GTD No. 27 entry collided and suffered Driveshaft damage I believe… 

MOTO GP: Another Season-long Championship Nailbiter!

Having absolutely been far more exhilarating vs. thee “Dutch Tsunami” show!

 

This year’s MotoGP Championship saw the introduction of Sprint races being held every Saturday, preceding Sunday’s main event, giving a maximum of 37-points on offer each of the twenty race weekends.

 

Yet with these extra races, came the chances for more riders injuries, which have occurred in droves this season!

 

Case in point is newly minted Werks’ Ducati rider Enea Bastianini, whose nickname is The Beast! Yet Bastianini was taken out by fellow Ducati rider Luca Marini in the season’s opening Sprint race at Portimoa, suffering a separated shoulder! Before Bastianini would have surgery for more broken bones later during the season!

 

While it seemed to Mwah that satellite KTM GasGas Tech 3 rider Pol Espargaro suffered the worst injuries of the year! Suffering multiple fractures during a scary accident on the first day of action in Portugal!

 

http://www.nofenders.net/2023/04/moto-gp-2023-season-starts-with-new.html

 

And then there’s the well documented maladies Marc Marquez’s endured this season, including some 27-plus crashes! Along with a broken hand all leading to His leaving Repsol Honda a year early to join His brother at the satellite Gresini Ducati squad next season…

 

As I don’t know if any MotoGP rider has escaped some form of injury this year? Due to the extra twenty Sprint races, which unlike Formula 1, seem to have an actual impact upon the Championship!

 

Thus it’s obviously been a far more fascinating and exciting season vs. Formula 1! With the two main title protagonists being reigning MotoGP World Champion Francesco Pecco’ Bagnaia, racing for the factory Ducati concern and riding with the No. 1 plate. With  thee “Martinator”, aka Jorge Martin proving a worthy rival on the satellite No. 89 Pramac Racing Duc’.

 

As Martin found Himself nearly two race weekends adrift pointswise of Bagnaia. Before whittling a 66-points deficit down to an advantage of plus seven following Round 15’s Indonesia Sprint race.

 

And what’s that ‘Ol Wide World of Sports iconic slogan about the Thrill of victory and the Agony of Defeat!

 

Since just 24hrs later while leading, Martin inexplicably crashed out of the lead! With Pecco’ sniffing Blood and taking an unlikely win to retake the points lead, vaulting 18-points ahead of Jorge!

 

Following a wild ‘n wooly weekend Down Under on Phillip Island. Where I missed All of the action, including Johann Zarco’s maiden MotoGP victory! As the Australian Grand Prix race was pushed forward to Saturday with the Sprint race on Sunday being cancelled due to inclement weather.

 

Presumably Bagnaia was content with Zarco winning, while finishing runner-up. Whilst Martin finished fifth, Seeing Bagnaia’s points lead mushroom to +27-points

 

Martin won at the next round in Thailand with Bagnaia third. Seeing Martin clawed back 16-points to bring the gap down to minus eleven following the Malaysian Sprint race. Before Bagnaia finished one place ahead of title rival Martin in third during Sunday’s Malaysian Grand Prix.

 

As the two Ducati riders were locked into a fierce battle with just two rounds remaining, i.e.; Qatar and Valencia. With 74-points still on offer with Bagnaia leading by 14-points.

 

Saturday’s Sprint race at the Losail International Circuit in Qatar saw Martin go from fifth to P1 and win His eighth Sprint race of the season. Coupled with Bagnaia’s fifth place finish, Martin cut the point’s deficit to seven markers.

 

But once again in a repeat performance, 24 hours later things went horribly Pear-shaped for Martin! Starting fifth, Jorge suffered massive wheelspin when the flag dropped and found Himself in a lowly eighth! While Bagnaia went from P4 to leading!

 

Martin could only work His way up to sixth before His underperforming Michelin tyres saw Jorge finish a lowly tenth!

 

Meanwhile I love how Gresini rider Fabio di Giannantonio, then without a ride next year, due to Marc Marquez taking His seat. Ignored team “orders” to hold station behind Ducati’s Factory rider Pecco Bagnaia. And instead went for victory by passing Bagnaia, who then almost threw His points lead away!

 

As di Giannantonio held off the hard charging Bagnaia to claim His maiden MotoGP victory, while Pecco settled for second, taking a 21-point lead to the season finale at Valencia a week later.

 

Saturday’s Sprint race did little to fail for excitement, with Maverick “top Gun” Vinales leading from Pole. With Martin in third and KTM’s Brad Binder the “sausage” in the Italian Scooters’ sandwich, whilst Bagnaia ran behind…

 

With Jorge feeling pressure from Countryman Marc Marquez, Martin soon passed both Binder and Vinales for a lead He would not relinquish, while Maverick fell backwards to fourth.

 

Yet it was Martin and Marquez on the Sprint podium with Binder on the boxes middle step. With Vinales keeping Bagnaia in fifth, seeing the partisan Spanish crowd Happy over Martin’s ninth Sprint victory cutting the Championship deficit to 14-points.

 

Thus I was certain that the Championship’s points permutations would be discussed Ad Nausea, keeping us glued to them! Which if I’ve done my calculations correctly, Ci? Martin obviously needs to win and score the maximum 25-points. With Bagnaia finishing fifth and being equal on points, I believe Martin has more wins, ci?

 

Nope! Bagnaia led six wins to Martin’s four prior to Valencia, and therefore would need Pecco’ to finish sixth if He wins the race Sunday

 

Maverick Vinales gifted Bagnaia Pole position Sunday by ignoring a Black and Orange Flag and failing to stop immediately due to mechanical issues, dropping three places for the start.

 

Thus Pecco held the lead exiting Turn-1 with Jorge shooting into second from His sixth place start, seeing the two title protagonist in lockstep, Again! Yet Martin got sucked into Bagnaia’s Slipstream and almost took the pair out when being caught in the Aerodymanic vortex!

 

Martin was forced to run wide and dropped to eighth place some two seconds adrift! Before beginning His frenzied march towards the front. Yet on lap-6 Me Thinks? Martin misjudged His overtaking maneuver on Marc Marquez. With Martin plowing into Marquez’s rear wheel and sending the Honda rider skywards! Seeing both riders crashing out of the race, and thus the title fight was over.

 

And although the Box Score says Bagnaia won the race, it wasn’t as straightforward as that. Especially with both KTM riders making costly errors while running 1-2 ahead of Pecco! Whilst the star of the Show was Di Giannantonio who came from 11th to harry Bagnaia on the final two laps before settling for second!

 

Yet following the race, Di Giannantonio was assessed a three second penalty for low tyre pressure and dropped from second to fourth overall. With Johann Zarco and Brad Binder moving up one place apiece on the podium. 

IndyCar’s NXT Wave of Drivers?

But how many will land Full season IndyCar rides?

 

By now, if you’re a Hard Core IndyCar Afficionado, then you know that Denmark’s Christian Rasmussen driving for the HMD Motorsports Armada won the 2023 Indy NXT Championship. With the Dane’ claiming five wins, eight podiums and five Pole positions enroute to this year’s title aboard the No. 6 HMD Motorsports with Dale Coyne Racing entry.

 

Rasmussen’s closest competitor ultimately was Andretti Autosport’s Kiwi’ Hunter McElrea who finished runner-up with two wins, six podiums and two Pole positions this season.

 

As both drivers were contesting their sophomore Indy NXT season’s, and entering the Laguna Seca season finale doubleheader weekend, Rasmussen held a comfortable 65-point lead over Mcelrea.

 

In qualifying, McElrea clamed Pole position for Race-1, with Rasmussen claiming Pole for Sunday’s Race-2; hence each driver claimed  one point apiece for Pole position.

 

McElrea led Flag-to-flag in Saturday’s Race-1 with Rasmussen effectively “cruising” Home second. Thus with McElrea claiming the maximum 54-points available vs. Rasmussen’s 40-points; McElrea trimmed the points deficit to 51-points. Seeing Rasmussen three shy of clinching the title Saturday.

 

Sunday’s second race saw the same outcome, albeit with Rasmussen leading wire-to-wire and McElrea finishing runner-up. Thus seeing Rasmussen return His final points advantage back to the 65 points He’d begun the weekend with, finally being crowned the 2023 Indy NXT Champion.

 

Penske Entertainment, owners of Indy NXT’s Championship, sees the revised, previously neutered prize fund now awarding the series Champion $850,000 to be used for testing an IndyCar at Texas and Mother Speedway, ergo Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Plus running the Indianapolis 500 and one further IndyCar race. While second place pays a paltry $125,000 and third place a meager $65,000.

 

And I say paltry since I’m 99% certain I’ve read that Anderson Promotions who run the lower Junior Formula’s, just wrote a cheque for $654,000 for 2023 USF Pro 2000 championship winner Myles Rowe to advance to Indy NXT. Where He’ll replace Ernie Francis Jr. in the No. 99 HMD Motorsports with Force Indy entry next year.

 

What I found interesting over the Laguna Seca weekend was how Hunter McElrea was garnering All of the Headlines for wanting to move up to IndyCar next year, although He doesn’t come from a wealthy family or have a considerable budget to bring with Him.

 

While where will title winner Rasmussen land? And can He manage to find the necessary budget for a full season Big boyz’ (IndyCar) ride?

 

As I know I shouldn’t type this but, is Ed Carpenter Racing a viable option right now? As ECR has had a fairly miserable season this year, along with Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing. Although RLLR seems to have righted it’s floundering “ship” at season’s end.

 

While I believe that Racer’s Marshall Pruett has previously speculated that current Indy NXT driver Danial Frost might possibly have a contract to drive one of the empty Dale Coyne racing seats next year?

 

And if Andretti Autosport, Err Global decides to drop it’s fourth IndyCar entry? Which would be the ideal landing spot for Rasmussen, then does the Honda engine lease become available for another IndyCar team

 

As ‘Ol Derek Daly would say; Hang onto your HollyHocks Folks! As Thars miles to go towards sorting out the 2024 Indy NXT and IndyCar season line-ups… 

IndyCar Rewind: Coronating A champion in the Rose City this Weekend?

As what’s that ‘Ol Airplane movie Shtick about Don’t Call Me Shirley! Since surely Alex Palou will finally be crowned the IndyCar Champion…

 

AH, what’s that ‘Ol Sayin’ about Back in thee Saddle again? As your somewhat refreshed No Fenders Scribe Tomaso returns to Ye Keyboard after a month’s sabattical…

 

As it’s funny how I’d managed to listen to every single Qualifying session and Race upon IndyCar Radio from St Pete thru Toronto. Which I still Don’t understand why our fine and Oh, so pleasant Kuhnaidiun’ Neighbours gets Crapped upon yearly with it’s race not being on mainstream Cable TV!

 

As seriously Comcast and IndyCar? You cannot find a measly three hour window of time upon either USA Network or Ahem, CNBC!

 

And whilst I was rootin’ for Christian Lundgaard, whom No Fenders Offical’ Photographer nicknamed Looneygard’, Hya! To win His maiden IndyCar race ahead of my Numero Uno IndyCar Driver Pato O’Ward.

 

All I could do was repeat the words that Alex Palou was Shitting Gold Bricks! With His masterful drive from P15 to runner-up with a severely damaged Front Wing that IndyCar Radio’s Mark Gravelly’ James was incredulous over it not falling off the last 20-laps!

 

Thus seeing Palou increase His points lead to 117 markers ahead of then second place Scott Dixon, who finished fourth Up North Eh! In what seems such an Oh, So Bloody long time ago!

 

As I’d miss “watching”, Err listening to the next three races. Since I prefer listening to them upon IndyCar Radio, since have I reminded Y’all I’m blind lately?

 

As Y’all know that was before “the King of Corn”, aka Josef Newgarden once again ran the tables with a clean sweep at Iowa’s Double Header weekend. As reportedly ‘Ol (Townsend) T-Bell’ came up with that Newgarden nicknamed…

 

Thus, with Newgarden scoring maximum points at Iowa, minus the two Poles positions being captured by Penske teammate will Power. Coupled with Palou’s eighth and third place finishes. Newgarden trimmed a healthy 37-points off of Palou’s lead, vaulting to second in the Championship at 477-397 points. Scott Dixon was third with 357 points. Marcus Ericsson fourth with 330 points and Scott McLaughlin fifth with 329 points prior to Nashville. Which you’d have to say was then effectively a two “Horse” fight for the Astor cup with Dixon a remote chance…

 

Totally missed the Nashville Crash-fest, albeit Tacoma Bureau Chief Mary ellen read me a race recap afterwards. Although it didn’t make any mention of how once again Palou’s Midas Touch continued! Since I believe it was sometime during the IndyCar-RASSCAR’ Double Necker’ weekend’s IndyCar Radio broadcast. Hearing Mark Gravelly’ James note how Palou had gotten lucky over not running out of fuel during Nashville to finish third…

 

As Palou led the Championship with 539 points prior to Gateway, Err Wide World Technology Raceway. With Dixon second with 438 points and Newgarden third with 434 points, being the only three potential Astor Cup Contendahs’.

 

As Scott McLaughlin with 395 points and Pato O’Ward with 388 points; positions fourth-fifth respectively were effectively eliminated from the title fight.

 

Yet even after Dixon scored an impriveable victory on Mother Speedway’s road course, wit the Kiwi’ now claiming at least one W’ for the last 19 years! Dixon still trails Palou by 101 points and Newgarden 105 points behind! Meaning all Palou needed to do was increase His lead to 109 points following WWTR and He would be crowned the 2023 NTT IndyCar Series Champion.

 

Gateway threw a few rinkles into the Championship chase, the first being the novel use of Alternate Flinstone’ tyres during the weekend’s condensed two day event. With Firestone allocating two sets of alternate rubber – with the mandates of one new set being used during Saturday’s first practice session, and the other during the race. With All 28 competitors being required to start on the primary coumpound and nobody being allowed to run the alternate during Qualifying. As this was hoped to spice up the show and bring in some alternate Pit strategies.

 

Secondly, initially five drivers were Hit with nine place Grid penalties for unapproved engine changes. With Scott McLaughlin, Scott Dixon, Takuma Sato, Kyle Kirkwood and Augustin Canipino All having taken on fifth engines for the season, which isn’t allowed per IndyCar rules. With the most significant of this quintet being Dixon, albeit the “Iceman 2.0” has a long habbit of making lemonade from lemons…

 

And I scribbled that analogy prior to Sunday’s race, where Dixon started P16!

 

Which IndyCar was trying to do Saturday at Gateway, since Thunderstorms and a steady Downpour totally disrupted the schedule, with the morning’s 8AM Pacific and Qualifying at 11AM Pacific both being Rained Out!

 

As it’s Uber Annoying how difficult for somebody who doesn’t do the TWIT-ER” game or other Social Media outlets to find out in “real” time what’s going on? Since All that the official IndyCar website told me was to come back for updates, after being the first place I learned of the track being under deluge!

 

Thin Mike Silver of The Pit Window gave an WWTR update saying that track activities could begin as early as 5:00PM Central time, being 3PM here on the Central Oregon coast. Before Ye Oldest IndyCar Blogger George Phillips of Oilpressure Fame finally posted His Welcome to WWTR post around 1PM Pacific saying that there was still some Drizzle and that the track had lights. So who knows what the day’s schedule will turn out as? Meaning I spent the morning and afternoon going round the “Horn” trying to find out when track activities would actually begin? With the totally revised schedule commencing nearly some nine hours later! At 4:45PM Pacific, (6:45PM Central) with just a single 60mins practice – plus the two 10mins High line “rubbering-in” sessions. For which overnight rain was expected to wash away.

 

While the Diehard IndyCar Fans got to see the Indy NXT race be held under the lights Saturday evening…

 

Qualifying was shifted to Sunday morning with the race staying in it’s same “time” window.

 

Yet Sunday morning’s Qualifying was delayed by 22mins due to a Silver Crown sprint Car having laid Oil down upon the racing surface during their practice. But the weather was much improved, albeit the predicted rain overnight had indeed washed the rubber away.

 

While it was also announced that IndyCar points leader Alex Palou would incur a nine place Grid penalty for an unapproved (fifth) engine change, ultimately starting P14.

 

Whilst some on Ye Bloggosphere are singing the praises of Kevin The Werewolf! Lee as Fill-in lead Announcer for Lee Diffey, Splat! Kevin’soverly manufacturered Faux excitement is one of the reasons compelling Mwah to have switched to IndyCar Radio instead!

 

And while the Gateway race was enjoyable, I stil really Don’t know how Scott Dixon worked His Majic once again for another W’. As I was rootin’ Ah-Mighty’ for Pato O’Ward to win Sunday. But like O’Ward said following finishing runner-up by 22 seconds. Being the largest winning margin since Juan Pablo Montoya beat Patrick Carpentier by 12 seconds in 2000…

 Dixon Pulled a Dixon!

 

While is it wrong that I broke into Gleeful laughter when Josef Newgarden Hit the wall on lap-211! As I simply didn’t want Him to win All five Oval track races this year. Not to mention He’s become my new Villain – Thanks to Hulio’s demise, and soon to be Indy 500 Only status!

 

Hey, Robin Miller says Hate’s Good!

 

Whilst it was super enjoyable having David Malukas in the No. 18 Dale Coyne Racing entry running at the front All race long, ultimately claiming His second ever series Podium finish of third.

 

Thus with Alex Palou’s subpar day of finishing seventh coupled with Scott Dixon’s win. Dixon trimmed a healthy 27 points off of Palou’s lead and now trails Alex Palou by 74 points entering the Rose City, aka Portland. Where I’ll be expecting Palou to finally be crowned this year’s IndyCar Champion, Sunday! 

INDYCAR: Texas Motor Speedway recap – Day One

As Not even that different rubber compound from those PickemUp’ Trucks could Slow the Indy Cars Down!

 

For All of Yuhs who thought that the four weeks break between Indy Cars first two races was far too long. Whale’, then Y’all better feel sorry for the Indy NXT Boyz’ and Girl, who are currently in the midst of a 56 days, eight Freakin’ weeks Hiatus between St Pete and their next race at Barber Motorsports Park on April 30^th, Yowza!

 

As one of the Talking Points for Texas Motor Speedway (TMS) was this year’s Chassis Technical revisions, which Arse-sumedly were TMS specific. For which Racer’s Marshall Pruett explained in the following video.

 

https://racer.com/2023/03/31/video-indycar-texas-2023-aero-options/

 

Meanwhile the Indianapolis Star’s Nathan Browne noted that unexpectedly, the Andretti Autosport’s Nos. 26 & 27 swapped Race Strategists, beginning at TMS. As Colton Herta was completely mystified on why His Dad Bryan had been moved to Kyle Kirkwood’s Car. With Scott Harder now talking in Colton’s ears on the radio instead.

 

And this is just total random scatter speculation upon my part, But? Is this in the vein of RLLR’s recent driver swap of the Hy-Vee Car? And is Mikey A’ feeling the “Heat” of Not producing for Colton’s sponsor Gainbridge? Hoping for better results with this Shake-up?

 

The other Scuttlebutt that makes absolutely No sense to Mwah, are the reports that Takuma Sato’s only “Guaranteed” a ride in the No. 11 Chip Ganassi Racing entry for the first two Ovals, i.e.; TMS and someplace at 16th & Georgetown, Say What?

 

Seriously? Who is Cheep’ gonna plug into the #11 for Iowa’s Double Header and Gateway? As this is just plain Stupid!

 

But onto Qualifying, where ultimately Felix the Cat’, as No Fenders Offical’ Photographer CARPETS’ has nicknamed Him. Err, Felix Rosenqvist surprised the entire field by claiming His second, consecutive Pole position at TMS when being the only driver to average a speed of 220mph plus during His two lap Qualie’ run. Which was even more impressive since He was the 18th driver to Qualify, with Qualifying being run in reverse order of the current Point standings.

 

As Rosenqvist had to wait for 10 more drivers to qualify, with Scotty thee Iceman 2.0’ Dixon winding up second. And much has been made of Arrow McLaren’s trio taking the first three Odd Grid places, with Alexander rossi third and Pato O’Ward presumably a disappointed fifth. While Team Penske’s Josef Newgarden was fourth.

 

Unfortunately, another Stattistic that IndyStar’s Messer Browne divulged ran tru for Rosenqvist on Sunday. As I believe He mentioned that of the past 15 TMS Pole Sitters, Only One had gone to Victory lane…

 

David Malukas put His HMD Motorsports Dale Coyne Racing Honda on the inside of Row-5 in ninth, and later gave a shout Out to His former Engineer Ross Bunneel who was running Dixon’s mount now. While the two Foy Boyz’ performed admirally. With The Great Santini’ (Ferrucci) slotting in 14^th, while Benjamin Pedersen was the Top Rookie in P13 on His first Oval No less!

 

And once again, Juncos Hollinger Racing, (JHR) the little Team that Could! Outperformed again with Callum Ilott P17 and a wide eyed, grinning ear-to-ear Augustn Canapino a very respective P19 on His Oval Debut!

 

As the Argentine driver repeatedly told IndyCar Radio’s Nicky Salt’ Yeoman He was smiling so broadly because He just couldn’t get over How Crazy Fast it was driving at Texas!

 

For which I can only say Canapino will be completely Blown away at Mother Speedway! Since He qualified with a solid 218mph plus two lap average! And Conor Daly topped an eye popping 240mph at Indianapolis last year! And lapping at 218mph is just plain “Slow.”

 

Whilst it would be easy to Pile On both Meyer Shank Racing (MSR) and Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing’s (RLLR) Dismal Qualie’ results, But this is to simple! And I fear a worrisome trend is appearing for both Teams?

 

But I will say I’m Not surprised over one half of MSR’s vaunted Duo, since I totally believe that Helio Castroneves is Toast! Even if He worked His way to a fortuitous 10th place finish Sunday at TMS.

 

Yet you’d have to say that both of these Organizations seemed totally Out to Lunch on the 1.5-mile Super Speedway! Which I have Zero Clue if this is an Ominous foreshadowing for the next Oval race? Although you’d think that some ‘lil ‘Ol Oval at 16^th & Georgetown is a totally different Animal!