Two podiums to keep Scuderia Playteam SaraFree ahead of the game
- Ferrari F430 n.3 - Michele Maceratesi \ Andrea Montermini - 10?handicap
- Ferrari F430 n.4 - Manuel Giao \ Pedro Couceiro - 0 handicap
During the International GT Open week-end, Scuderia Playteam Sarafree scored a double podium on in the second race of the weekend, to put the troubled first race well behind it.
Both cars made a stunning start from pole and fifth in the Valencia sunshine. It was a strong race for both of the drivers who also clocked the fastest lap. It was a clear win for the Ferrari F430 n.3 dominating from start to finish and a third step of the podium for Portuguese drivers Giao and Couceiro.
From the start of the race the two cars, kept good pace. Pole man Maceratesi kept the lead while Giao, driving the Ferrari F430 n.4, immediately secured third place.
Montermini commented, "A really good race. I wish that all races would end up like this one. I only had to follow a good strategy. At the start I just kept in mind our penalty and try to build as much of a gap as possible. I want to thank the team and my team-mate who helped me so much. A great result today."
Maceratesi commented, "It was a bit risky to start like I did. But happy in the end because the tyres worked well and lasted.
My team-mate had a superb race as well. Thanks to him we kept the pace until the end. This race worked well for us and I am especially happy with the result."
Couceiro commented, "The race was tough. We also had a drive through penalty at the start of the race, which I think was unfair and we lost a lot more time than necessary. In any case, after our results from yesterday, this podium is really sweet. We go back home with a good result, good points and the team is clearly leading the Championship. What else can we wish for even if the season is still long ahead of us."
Giao commented, "We made a good start. Right away our pace was good. I was overtaking regularly and did not see a yellow flag that was a bit hidden.
I jumped on the brakes, but it was too late, the competitor ahead of me closed the door. We touched during the move. This is what cost me a drive-through penalty. I was set to win the race today especially because we were racing without a handicap. So I am a bit disappointed. But to start from fifth and finish third on the podium is nevertheless a good result! "