Algarve Pro Racing Achieves Historic Podium Sweep in Dubai
Algarve Pro Racing made motorsport history with a remarkable podium sweep at Sunday’s Dubai race, securing first, second, and third places—an unprecedented achievement for a private team in international sports car racing. While the team’s #20 car did not participate in the podium celebrations alongside the #4 and #25 cars due to final result confirmations, a commemorative team photo signifies their milestone moment.
In a challenging build-up to the Yas Marina event, the #13 Inter Europol Ligier JS P325 encountered significant issues, requiring a full chassis switch after discovering a damaged suspension mount from a previous incident. The car ultimately retired shortly after a late start from the pit lane.
Conversely, the #23 23Events Ligier emerged unscathed from a major crash involving driver Louis Stern at Dubai, and is prepared for the upcoming race weekend.
Driver swaps are prominent across several teams for Yas Marina. The #85 R-Ace GP Duqueine reintroduces 2025 Michelin Le Mans Cup champions Fabien Michal and Pierre-Alexandre Provost, alongside newcomer Zack Scoular. Similarly, the #54 AF Corse Ferrari 296 GT3 will welcome 2025 ELMS runners-up Custodio Toledo and Riccardo Agostini to join Francesco Castellacci.
Uncertainty remains regarding Fred Poordad’s fitness to return to the #30 car after James Sweetnam stepped in due to Poordad’s back pain. Meanwhile, Fred Poordad is on site for private testing ahead of a final decision regarding his participation in the Yas Marina double-header.
In a promising partnership, United Autosports has begun collaborating with Ponos Racing, which recently parted ways with K2 Racing. The alliance aims to bolster Ponos’ competitive edge, as evidenced by significant performance improvements observed from the start of the season in Malaysia to their impactful showing in Dubai.
As preparations continue at Yas Marina, logistical challenges surfaced due to a 46-car grid, compelling scrutineers to set up in the car park typically reserved for F1 drivers and officials.
The upcoming races promise to build on the excitement generated in Dubai, with a spotlight on emerging talents and strategic team reconfigurations throughout the field.
