Eastalent Racing Shines in GT World Challenge Europe Prologue
Circuit Paul Ricard, France – Eastalent Racing commenced its first full season in the GT World Challenge Europe in commanding fashion, with Christopher Haase setting the fastest time of the two-day Prologue test. Behind the wheel of the #84 Audi R8 LMS GT3 Evo II, Haase clocked a lap of 1:54.382 during the morning session on the final day, outperforming competitors from Boutsen VDS and Lionspeed GP by 0.283 and 0.289 seconds, respectively.
The Prologue’s opening session saw Thomas Preining of Lionspeed GP set the early pace with a time of 1:54.682, shortly eclipsing Haase. The session concluded with competitive times from the top five, including the #111 CSA Racing McLaren and the #3 Mercedes-AMG Team Verstappen Racing entry.
“It’s looking good,” remarked Bastian Buus from Lionspeed GP. “Our focus remains on our self-preparation ahead of qualifying and the race.”
In total, the Prologue included multiple sessions, with the highlights as follows:
- Afternoon Session: Ben Dörr led in the #23 McLaren GT3 Evo, achieving the fastest Silver Cup time of the test with a 1:54.762.
- Final Morning Session: Once more, Haase captured the top time, dominating the field, followed closely by strong performances from Porsche and Mercedes-AMG entries.
Amidst the strong showings, BMW faced challenges, hampered by a Balance of Performance adjustment that seemed to limit its competitive edge. The M4 GT3 Evo, despite past successes at Circuit Paul Ricard, saw subdued results during the Prologue.
The Lamborghini Temerario GT3 struggled throughout the sessions, failing to break into the top ranks and recording a best time of 1:56.059. The Prologue ran largely smoothly, disrupted only by a serious incident involving Jamie Day, whose Aston Martin sustained significant damage after a high-speed off.
As the dust settles from the Prologue, preparations intensify for the season opener, with Free Practice and Pre-Qualifying scheduled for tomorrow. A competitive field of 59 cars is poised to take to the track, underscoring the excitement ahead in the 2023 GT World Challenge Europe campaign.
Key Results:
- Fastest Lap: Christopher Haase (Eastalent Racing) – 1:54.382
- Notable Competitors:
- Thomas Preining (Lionspeed GP) – 1:54.682
- Ben Dörr (#23 McLaren GT3 Evo) – 1:54.762 (fastest Silver Cup)
Upcoming: Free Practice and Pre-Qualifying for the season opener tomorrow.
