ACI RACING WEEKEND: MONZA CROWNS SLATER KING OF THE FRECA
The second day of the latest ACI Racing Weekend 2025, being held at the Autodromo Nazionale Monza, awarded the title of the Formula Regional European Championship by Alpine: it was won by British driver Freddie Slater of Prema Racing, who won race 1 (15 laps) in 33'01"178, at an average speed of 157.897 km/h. Joining the fresh champion on the podium were Frenchman Evan Giltaire (ART Grand Prix), 1"636 down, and Brazilian Pedro Clerot (Van Amersfoort), 2"111 off at the finish.
In the E4 Championship, the leader of the standings, Japan's Kean Nakamura-Berta (Prema Racing) won, covering the 12 laps in 33'05"338, averaging 126.053 km/h. Second, following the penalty of U.S. Sebastian Wheldon, was Brazilian Gabriel Gomez (US Racing), 1"113 off and third was Singaporean driver Kabir Anurag (US Racing) who came in at 2"712.
In the Italian Gran Turismo Sprint GT3 Championship, success for Germany's Jens Klingmann and Finland's Jesse Krohn (BMW M4 GT3, Ceccato Racing) in 52'39"507, average 191.419 km/h. The duo crossed the finish line ahead of Leonardo Moncini and Daniele Di Amato (Honda NSX GT3, Nova Racing), separated by 5"196, and the crew formed by Ignazio Zanon and Mattia Michelotto (Lamborghini Huracán GT3 Evo 2 G, VSR), which came in at 7"678.
As for the Italian Gran Turismo Sprint GT Cup Championship, success for Leonardo Arduini and Argentine Franco Gerolami (Lamborghini Huracán ST Evo 2, MM Motorsport) in 51'56"602, average 180.671 km/h. Behind them is the duo formed by Andrea Fontana and Alessandro Mainetti (Lamborghini Huracán ST Evo 2, Target Competition) only 0"569 off. Third was Ferdinando D'Auria (Lamborghini Huracán ST Evo 2, HC Racing Division) at 19"450.
Saturday's Porsche Carrera Cup Italia race was won by Francesco Braschi (Ombra Racing) in 32'26"475, average 128.570 km/h. Second was his teammate, South African Keagan Masters (at 0"388), third was Dutchman Dirk Schouten (Dinamic Motorsport) at 1"162.
Tomorrow morning will begin with the two FRECA qualifying sessions from 8:30 a.m. to 9:05 a.m. Following the races: 9:30 a.m. race 2 E4; 10:30 a.m. race 2 GT Cup; 12:30 p.m. race 2 Porsche Carrera Cup Italia; 1:30 p.m. race 2 GT3; 2:50 p.m. race 2 Freca; 3:50 p.m. race 2 E4. Free admission with paid parking, allowed access to paddock 1. Spectators will be able to admire the cars up close thanks to the Grid Walk (with access from Gate 5).
Also tomorrow, in addition to the races, the Autodromo Nazionale Monza will also host the awarding of some race officials who have particularly distinguished themselves for their commitment during their long sports activities dedicated to motorsports: Francesco Molinaro (Inspector), Ezio Sisti (Technical Commissioner), Eligio Clemente (Sports Commissioner) and Lucio De Mori (Race Director). An event that is part of the "FIA Volunteers and Official Month" initiative, desired by the International Automobile Federation.
REICHER AND HAASE'S AUDI R8 LMS ON POLE FOR TITLE-DECIDING GT OPEN 500
Simon Reicher and Christopher Haase, driving the Audi R8 LMS GT3 EVO II for Eastalent Racing, will start tomorrow from pole position in the GT Open 500 at the Autodromo Nazionale Monza, which will conclude the 2025 International GT Open season.
The Austrian-German duo (1'43.834) will be joined on the front row by championship leader, Hungarian driver Levente Révész (Mercedes AMG GT3 EVO, Team Motopark), who is paired with German Maximilian Götz (their best time: 1'44.122).
Starting from the second row with the third-fastest time is the Ferrari 296 GT3 (AF Corse) driven by Tommaso Mosca and Thailand’s Carl Bennett (1'44.144).
Essentially, all the championship contenders will start in the top three: Reicher-Haase are only 5 points behind Révész, while Mosca-Bennett trail the Hungarian by 11 points. The 500 km race (2h55' plus one lap) will therefore decide who takes the title.
As for the support series, Saturday at Monza already featured several races.
In the final race of the day, held at dusk, Polish driver Tymek Kucharczyk (BVM Racing) won race 2 (16 laps in 27'57.019) by just one-thousandth of a second ahead of Sri Lankan Yevan David (Team Motopark), and by 70 thousandths over American Everett Stack (Team Motopark), clinching the Euroformula Open title. Earlier, Stack had won race 1 (16 laps in 27'42.318), finishing ahead of teammate Fernando Barrichello, son of former Ferrari F1 driver Rubens Barrichello, who was 1.090 seconds behind. Kucharczyk was third, 1.375 seconds off the lead.
In GB3, Australian Alex Ninovic (Rodin Motorsport) claimed his ninth victory of the season, crossing the line at the Temple of Speed ahead of fellow Australians Patrick Heuzenroeder (Xcel Motorsport) and Gianmarco Pradel (Rodin Motorsport), who finished 1.613 and 3.240 seconds behind respectively.
Ninovic completed a shortened race (10 laps due to a multi-car crash between the first chicane and Curvone) in 18'30.358.
Victory in the GT Cup Europe went to Portuguese driver Gonçalo Fernandes and Belgian Lars Zaenen (Porsche 992 GT3 Cup, Q1-trackracing), who completed the 27 laps in 50'40.791. Their teammates Stienes Longin and Nicolas Saelens finished second, 3.553 seconds behind. In third place were Pietro Armanni and Ludovico Longoni (Porsche 992 GT3 Cup, ZRS Motorsport), crossing the line 5.203 seconds off the lead.
The Clio Cup Series was won by Frenchman Anthony Jurado (Rangoni Corse), who narrowly beat compatriot Alex Finkelstein (GPA Racing) by just 50 thousandths of a second. Gabriele Torelli (Rangoni Corse) finished third in a race of 11 laps, completed in 29'50.466.
Sunday’s schedule kicks off with the second qualifying session for the GT Europe Cup (8:30–8:50 AM), followed by Clio Cup Series qualifying (9:00–9:20 AM).
Next comes race 2 of GB3 (9:45–10:15 AM), and race 3 of Euroformula Open (10:40–11:15 AM). At 11:45 AM, the main event of the weekend begins: the 500 km race that will conclude the International GT Open season. In the afternoon: race 2 of GT Europe Cup (3:35–4:25 PM), race 3 of GB3 (4:50–5:20 PM), and race 2 of Clio Cup Series (5:45–6:15 PM).
Admission is free (only parking fees apply). At the Fanzone, near the former museum and not far from the paddock, visitors will find food trucks, children’s activities, and a DJ set with Marco Regaz and Fede Cerve. In the afternoon, the Cinisello Balsamo Civil Protection Dog Unit (Gruppo Cinofilo Cinisellese della Protezione Civile) from Milan will also be present.
VERSTAPPEN STILL ON TRACK AT MONZA: TODAY PIRELLI TEST WITH 4 TEAMS INVOLVED
Four teams took to the track today at the Autodromo Nazionale Monza for the first day of testing organized by Pirelli for the development of 2026 tires. Max Verstappen returned to the track where he won the Formula 1 Pirelli Italian Grand Prix 2025 on Sunday, along with Red Bull teammate Yuki Tsunoda, Aston Martin third driver Felipe Drugovich and Williams and Racing Bulls starters Carlos Sainz and Isack Hadjar.
The schedule initially called for today to include only Red Bull, with Verstappen in the morning and Tsunoda in the afternoon, and Aston Martin with Drugovich. Testing was to continue tomorrow with the pair of Racing Bulls and Williams drivers. However, the weather forecast for Wednesday (thunderstorms and heavy rain in the morning) forced the plans to be revised.
With the morning session over, Williams and Racing Bulls agreed to advance part of their schedule to today, bringing Sainz and Hadjar to the track as early as this afternoon. To assemble the prototypes, Aston Martin and Williams adapted current AMR25 and FW47 single-seaters, while Red Bull used a mule car derived from the 2023 RB19 and Racing Bulls from the 2024 VCARB01.
The reigning world champion completed his program in the morning with a total of 59 laps, then left the wheel to Tsunoda, who authored 63 laps in the afternoon. The best times for the two Red Bull drivers were 1'24''117 on lap 25 for Verstappen and 1'23''826 on lap 30 for the Japanese driver. Drugovich (Aston Martin), on the other hand, covered 118 laps over the entire day, with a best time of 1'23''792 on lap 37.
Carlos Sainz (Williams) completed 49 laps, posting his best time of 1'22''388 on lap 30. Isack Hadjar, on lap 41 of the 65 runs, stopped the clock at 1'23''951, his best time of the day.
Tomorrow's program will inevitably be affected by the weather.
(Source, Pirelli Press Release)
Driving Simulators for Pilots: the Innovation of Virtual Reality.
Driving simulators are changing the way drivers prepare both in the real world and in esports. These innovative tools make it possible to experience the thrill of the track without taking a step outside the room, offering precise, safe and high-tech training.
If you've ever wondered how the best drivers hone their skills or how the world of digital sports is evolving, this article is for you.
What is a driving simulator?
A driving simulator is a platform that recreates, with extreme fidelity, the experience of driving on a real track. Using screens, steering wheel, pedals and VR technology, the driver can train in a virtual environment, simulating weather conditions, circuits and race dynamics.
Why are driving simulators important?
- They allow training without real risk
- Enable repetition of specific situations and improve strategies
- They help reduce costs associated with track testing
- They promote concentration and accuracy
Drivers train on driving simulators: a growing trend
More and more professional drivers are using driving simulators to prepare for races. Virtual training allows them to improve technique, study new circuits and experience difficult conditions without physical stress or danger.
Even in the world of esports, driving simulators are the basis for training real drivers in esports. The precision and realism of the tools are such that they require skills similar to those of real drivers, creating a new frontier of digital sports.
Driving simulators and drivers in esports: a winning synergy
The world of esports has opened up new opportunities for young motorsport enthusiasts. Driving simulators provide the ideal training ground, combining cutting-edge technology and global competition.
Benefits for pilots in esports:
- Training without space constraints or high costs
- Ability to compete internationally
- Development of reflexes, strategy and precision as in real pilots
- Access to a global community of enthusiasts
Conclusion
Driving simulators are no longer just a gadget for fans, but a real professional tool for drivers, both in real motorsport and in esports.
They offer an effective, safe and affordable way to train and continuously improve. Whether you are an enthusiast or a professional, it's time to find out how virtual reality can transform your driving experience.
SHOW ON THE BANKING IN MONZA FOR MIMO'S SUPERCARS
The second day of the fourth edition of MIMO Milano Monza Motor Show 2025 saw the North Banking of the High-Speed Ring at the Autodromo Nazionale Monza take center stage, hosting test drives and shows. Among them was a Tesla showcase that attracted a young and innovation-focused audience. On the 5.8 km road course, there were open laps by supercars and hypercars, electric vehicle performances, dynamic sessions of Arte in Pista, drifting exhibitions, and autonomous driving demonstrations by the Indy Autonomous Challenge.
From early morning, the Autodromo Nazionale Monza was filled with thousands of enthusiasts who animated the paddock, garages, and grandstands. Horacio and Christopher Pagani drew significant attention as they arrived in Monza for Arte in Pista Pagani, an event dedicated to the track-ready hypercars created by Pagani Automobili.
McLaren captured attention and hearts with two models honoring Ayrton Senna: the Senna Sempre with a Brazilian livery and a Marlboro-themed version. In the RECARO area, CEO Luca Pino unveiled prototype versions of the brand's new racing seats. In the afternoon, the spectacular RECARO Parade featured a lineup of supercars equipped with high-performance racing seats, along with the special participation of the Donne & Motori Parade.
Tomorrow marks the final day (open from 9 AM to 8 PM, free entry, paid parking), with an equally rich program. One of the most anticipated highlights is the opportunity for the public to board historic and special vehicles from the Marazzato Foundation — a true gem for collectors and vintage vehicle enthusiasts. Test drives will also continue, with major brands like Tesla, Mercedes-Benz, Omoda, Jaecoo, Leapmotor, EMC, and Foton participating.
SPECTACULAR ACTION AT AUTODROMO NAZIONALE MONZA DURING ACI RACING WEEKEND
The large motorsport audience showed up in full force, despite the intense heat in Brianza, filling the grandstands and paddock of the Autodromo Nazionale Monza. Their enthusiasm was rewarded with 12 spectacular races, full of twists and turns, culminating in the 3-Hour race of the Italian GT Endurance Championship, won by the Beretta-Frassineti-Testa crew driving the Lamborghini of VSR.
There were three different winners in the action-packed races of the Italian F4 Championship, which featured as many as 40 single-seaters on the grid. Victories went to Sebastian Wheldon, Kean Nakamura-Berta, and Newman Chi, who claimed his first win of the season. In TCR Italy, Matteo Poloni and Nicola Baldan took wins among the sequential cars, while Eric Brigliadori scored a double victory in the DSG class, finishing ahead of his teammate Matteo Roccadelli in both races.
Simone Bianco further extended his lead in the Italian Sports Prototypes Championship after winning Race 1, while Giacomo Maman secured his first career victory in Race 2. Also taking to the Monza track over the weekend was the FIA TCR World Tour, where Norbert Michelisz and Aurélien Comte took the wins.
The large crowd particularly appreciated the open paddock and the opportunity to step onto the starting grid of the 3-Hour Italian GT Endurance Championship race, where they could get a close look at the cars. Equally well-received was the Meet & Greet in the Fanzone on Saturday, where fans got the chance to meet some of the stars of the FIA TCR World Tour and TCR Italy.
SUZUKI BIKE DAY: OVER 2,500 CYCLISTS AT THE AUTODROMO NAZIONALE MONZA
On Saturday, June 14th, the fifth edition of the Suzuki Bike Day took place – a confirmed success, in line with the positive trend of previous editions.
More than 2,500 people took part in the great cycling celebration organized by Suzuki, bringing enthusiasm and passion to the roads of Brianza.
Wearing the official event technical jersey – inspired by Suzuki’s sporting tradition and the iconic livery with which Joan Mir won the MotoGP title in 2020 – cycling enthusiasts enjoyed an unforgettable experience, pedaling both within the historic Monza National Autodrome and along the scenic route inspired by the legendary “Coppa Agostoni.” The route spanned around 60 kilometers, with an elevation gain of 650 meters through the heart of Brianza.
The day was dedicated to an important cause: supporting Dynamo Camp, an organization that has been caring for children with serious and chronic illnesses for years.
Adding to the special atmosphere was the presence of many sports stars: sports executive, former road cyclist, and TV commentator Davide Cassani; cycling voices Giada Borgato and Luca Gregori; and Filippo Baroncini, U23 World Champion and professional cyclist.
Also in attendance was a large delegation from the FISG – Italian Ice Sports Federation – with well-known faces from various disciplines: figure skater Matteo Rizzo, Italian Champion in 2018; curling athletes Giacomo Colli, Stefano Gilli, Andrea Gilli, Rachele Scalesse, Fabio Ribotta, Francesco Vigliani, and Veronica Zappone. Alongside them were Orietta Bertò and Paolo Ioratti for Wheelchair Curling, Gabriele Lanza for Para Ice Hockey, and Margherita and Chiara Betti from the women’s Short Track national team.
Also present was a delegation of athletes from FITri – Italian Triathlon Federation – including Franco Pesavento, Michele Bonacina, and Marta Menditto.
The Suzuki Bike Day was a success not only for its strong turnout but also for its charitable mission in support of Dynamo Camp, the first Recreational Therapy camp in Italy for children affected by serious or chronic illnesses.
Thanks to the generosity of the many participants, a total of €34,233 was raised for Dynamo Camp.
(Suzuki Press Release)
NEW SEATS ON SALE FOR FORMULA 1 ITALY GP
Anticipation is growing for the Formula 1 Pirelli Italian Grand Prix 2025, scheduled to take place at the Autodromo Nazionale Monza from September 4 to 7. In response to the strong demand recorded so far, organizers announced today, Wednesday, May 21, the availability of an additional 3,000 grandstand seats, valid for each of the three days of the event and also available for purchase as season tickets.
This new package of coupons follows a sales campaign with more than satisfactory numbers, confirming the public's great enthusiasm for the second national round of the Formula 1 World Championship, in a particularly significant edition as the Championship celebrates its 75th anniversary.
Autodromo Nazionale Monza is thus preparing to welcome even more fans, offering them the chance to experience the unique atmosphere of an iconic event in the Temple of Speed up close.
New tickets are available starting today through official sales channels.
GOVERNMENT ALLOCATES RESOURCES FOR F1 GP IN MONZA: SATISFACTION OF DEL SETTE AND TOMBOLATO
Rome, May 20, 2025. "Great satisfaction." This is how Tullio Del Sette and Giovanni Battista Tombolato - respectively, Extraordinary Commissioner and Sub-Commissioner of the Automobile Club of Italy - commented on the approval, yesterday morning in the Council of Ministers, of the Infrastructure DL, which provides, among other things, resources for the organization of the two Italian stages of the Formula 1 World Championship (5 million euros per year, for the period 2026-2032) and 5.25 million for Imola 2025, which, last Sunday, at theAutodromo Internazionale Enzo and Dino Ferrari, marked a record-breaking edition, with more than 240 thousand fans and supporters crowding the stands and lawns.
According to Commissioner Del Sette, "the allocation of funds for the organization of the two Italian rounds of the Formula 1 World Championship - Monza and Imola - is a very important signal. The government's attention, in fact, confirms the importance of the GPs for the economic induced on the respective territories and the promotion of the image and Made in Italy in the world, and it is also an implicit recognition of the quality and seriousness of the commitment of the ACI - Italian Automobile Sports Federation - in working to ensure our motorsport a future worthy of its extraordinary past."
"A non-formal thanks to the Ministry of Infrastructure for this crucial step," said Sub-Commissioner Tombolato - both for the world of tricolor motorsport and for the very economy of two of the most active and productive regions of our country. Monza and Imola, in fact, represent not only two exceptional sporting events loved and followed all over the world - only in Italy, last Sunday, the Imola GP glued to the TV more than 3 million viewers, with a share of 24.7% - but two extraordinary economic drivers, for the territory and the whole country, whose total induced activities touch, every year, the 600 million euro ".
(ACI Press Release)
