Ferrari Challenge EU Portimão 2024: Mid-Season Thrills at the Algarve Circuit

The Ferrari Challenge Trofeo Pirelli Europe returns to the Iberian Peninsula, marking the halfway point of the 2024 championship with the highly anticipated Ferrari Challenge EU Portimão 2024 round at the famous Algarve circuit from 4 to 7 July. Known for its undulating terrain and high-speed sections, the Algarve circuit promises to deliver an action-packed weekend for the Prancing Horse’s one-make series.

Ferrari Challenge EU Portimão 2024 Event Overview

Following the intense races in Jerez, the competition heats up even more as drivers from all four classes compete with the new 296 Challenge and the 488 Challenge Evo. The championship standings are incredibly close, with three drivers separated by just four points, ensuring fierce battles on the track.

Trofeo Pirelli

In the Trofeo Pirelli category, young talents and seasoned veterans are neck and neck. Giacomo Altoè (Emil Frey Racing) aims to reclaim his winning streak after a penalty in Jerez cost him a fourth consecutive win. He faces tough competition from Bence Valint (Ferrari Budapest – Rossocorsa) and Philipp Baron (Gohm Motorsport – Baron Racing Team), the latter having won Race-2 in Andalusia. Newcomers Filippo Coluccio (Radicci Automobili – Best Lap – FCI) and Dylan Medler (Pellin Racing) add excitement to the mix as they make their season debuts.

The Am category sees Hendrik Viol (Scuderia Praha Racing) and Marco Zanasi (CDP – Pinetti Motorsport) tied for the lead, with Claus Zibrandtsen (Formula Racing) close behind after an impressive win in Spain. Debutants Anders and Jacob Bidstrup, along with Andreas Borris from Danish Formula Racing, make their first appearances, promising an intriguing battle.

Coppa Shell

Henry Hassid (Kessel Racing) leads the Coppa Shell standings despite a drive-through penalty in Jerez. With two wins and two second places, he maintains a 24-point lead over John Dhillon (Graypaul Nottingham) and 25 points ahead of Manuela Gostner (Ineco – Reparto Corse RAM), who secured her first win of the season in Spain.

In the Coppa Shell Am category, Zois Skrimpias (Ineco – Reparto Corse RAM) dominates with consistent top finishes. However, Andreas König (Gohm Motorsport – Haupt Racing Team), Andrea Levi (Rossocorsa), and Eric Cheung (Formula Racing) are hot on his heels, separated by only 12 points.

Trofeo Pirelli Am

Fabrizio Fontana (Formula Racing) shines in the Ferrari 488 Challenge Evo class, having only lost two points in his debut season in the series. His dominance sets the stage for an exciting race in Portimão.

Ferrari Challenge EU Portimão 2024 Programme Highlights

Here is an overview of the Ferrari Challenge EU Portimão 2024 event this weekend:

• Thursday (4 July): Free Practice sessions for all groups.
• Friday (5 July): Testing and Free Practice for Coppa Shell AM, Trofeo Pirelli, Trofeo Pirelli AM, and Coppa Shell & 488 classes.
• Saturday (6 July): Qualifying and Race 1 for all classes, including Corse Clienti Hot Laps.
• Sunday (7 July): Qualifying and Race 2 for all classes, with more Corse Clienti Hot Laps sessions.
• Monday (8 July): Club Challenge Private Practice sessions.

For complete times of each practice, qualifying, and race, you can download the Ferrari Challenge EU Portimão 2024 timetable here.

How to Watch Ferrari Challenge EU Portimão 2024 in South Africa

For South African fans, DStv channels might provide brief coverage of the Ferrari Challenge EU Portimão 2024. Highlights and replays may be available on channels 206, 208, and 215. Alternatively, viewers can check the official Ferrari Challenge website or YouTube channel for updates and live-streaming options.

Join the Conversation

Follow the live updates, highlights, and results on the official Ferrari Challenge website and YouTube channel. Join the discussion on social media using the hashtag #FerrariChallengeEU2024 to share your excitement and support for your favourite drivers. Also, check out our Ferrari Challenge EU category!