Optimum Motorsport Dominates 2023 Michelin 12H Spa-Francorchamps

Optimum Motorsport secured a commanding victory at the Michelin 12H Spa-Francorchamps on Sunday, with drivers Salman Owega, Freddie Tomlinson, and Harry George demonstrating skill and strategy in their McLaren 720S GT3 EVO. Starting from pole position, the team maintained control throughout the race, finishing 52 seconds ahead of their nearest competitors.

Race Overview

The second round of the Michelin 24H SERIES European Series began under challenging conditions, with rain affecting the circuit in the final hour. Despite the weather challenges, Optimum’s squad led the event from the start, concluding the race after a twelve-hour endurance showdown.

Key Drivers’ Commentary:
“It couldn’t be any better, a big thank you to the team and to McLaren – the car was really great,” remarked Owega, who was racing with the team for the first time. George added, “Epic! I’m just over the moon—it was an incredible experience.”

PRO-AM Battle

In a dramatic PRO-AM class showdown, Yannick Redant and the Ajith RedAnt Racing Mercedes-AMG GT3 EVO battled fiercely with Manuel Lauck’s Porsche 911 GT3 R (992) EVO. Redant initially crossed the line in fifth overall, seemingly achieving the class win, but a subsequent 20-second penalty relegated him to second place, gifting the victory to Lauck and his teammates.

Additional Class Winners

The overall podium featured:

• 1st: Optimum Motorsport – McLaren 720S GT3 EVO
• 2nd: HAAS RT – Audi R8 LMS GT3 EVO II, piloted by Steven Palette and team
• 3rd: GetSpeed Team JR286 – Mercedes-AMG GT3.

In the 992 class, Mühlner Motorsport’s Porsche 911 GT3 Cup (992 I) claimed victory, while QMMF by HRT Performance topped the 992-AM standings. Vortex secured a strong win in the GTX class, and Not Only Motorsport triumphed in TCE-TCX.

Race Dynamics

The race featured multiple lead changes, particularly during the first hour, which was marked by aggressive competition and strategic pit stops. A series of Code 60 interventions added complexity to the race strategy.

As darkness fell and rain set in, Optimum Motorsport capitalized on their earlier planning, executing timely pit stops for wet weather tires, which ensured their lead remained safe despite fierce competition.

Upcoming Events

The Michelin 12H Paul Ricard, the next event in the Michelin 24H SERIES European Series, will take place from June 5-7 at the Le Castellet venue in southern France, promising another exciting chapter in the endurance racing calendar.

Photography Credits: racingpixels/ 24H Series