Thomas ends up 2008 with a triumph in Adria 24 Hours
Together with his friends Daniel Ducret, Agostino Penna and Giuliano Altoé
ADRIA, 14th December 2008 – Thomas Biagi has won the fifth edition of 24 Hours race in Adria during Telethon with Adria Race Way Team with an advantage of one round on Durango, headed by F1 driver Giancarlo Fisichella, during an amazing duel in the last hours of the race.
«It’s such an important result for me – Thomas sais exhausted but happy just out of its Mitsubishi Evo VIII – this is the first victory during a 24hours in my career, after I nearly got it last year in Spa - Belgium. This has a special flavour not only because I got it during a race with outstanding professional drivers, but also because I’ve been driving the car for over 10 hous and in the following hours I haven’t slept at all: together with my friend Altoè we have guided our car-mates, giving instructions and suggestions via radio. I feel I gained this victory both on the track and from the bench.
Adrenalin kept me awake all time long. I brought the car to the finishing line and the final 60 minutes seemed neverending to me, because we had transmission problems in the last seven hours. It was really hard and I tried to get the best from our advantage facing the forcing of Fisichella who has recovered but could not reach us.
First of all I’m satisfied because solidarity and Telethon have won today and even because the victory has come with my friends Ducret, Penna and Altoè. Thanks to the team mates: Andrea Ca Bianca, Franco Munari and Mauro».
Thomas greets the end of 2008 from the Argentinian podium!
SAN LUIS (Argentina), November 23rd 2008 - Thomas Biagi ends happily 2008 FIA GT Championship thanks to the third place gained together with Christian Montanari on the unusual San Luis racetrack. He overtakes then in the overall ranking Emmanuel Collard’s Porsche which was fourth.
«It has been a really hard race, above all for the baking hot and for the sand blown by the wind in the racetrack – said Thomas at the end of the proof - I had to modify all the paths and I also slightly touched the barriers many times, with high risks; the adherence degree was even unstable because of the sand. I am moderately satisfied. Let’s say that we got the goal of saying goodbye to this season from the podium. I wish I could have ended up the Championship among the three first positions and we nearly arrived…
This year has been as much demanding as I expected, for sure it has strenghtened my temper and I have learned to understand FIA GT Championship by the perspective of GT2 serie. I have acquainted myself with this experience and I will face 2009 with a positive mood. I thank AF Corse, all mechanicians and engeneers headed by the special guy who is Amato Ferrari, all those who trust in me, Client Dept of Ferrari Corse, Michelin and all sponsors who permitted us to face out this championship and this onerous transfer to South America.
Before saying goodbye, I would like to make my congratulations to Matias Russo and Luis Perez Companc for today’s victory, and above all also to Maserati and to the pair made by my friend Bertolini and my previous car-mate, Michael Bartels, who have ascertained the pilot title of GT1 with the fifth place».
For Thomas 2008 hasn’t come to an end: on December 9th you’ll see him in action at the Motor Show in Bologna during the GT indoor thopy .
SAN LUIS RESULT
1) Russo/Perez Companc, Ferrari F430 2:01:34.742
2) Bruni/Vilander, Ferrari F430 2:01:35.990
3) Montanari/Biagi, Ferrari F430 2:02:26.836
FINAL RANKING
1) Vilander – Bruni, 93 points
2) Malucelli – Ruberti, 60,5 points
3) Westbrook, 45 points
4) Montanari – Biagi, 45 points
Thomas Biagi Argentina preview
The Italian pilot discloses the unusual San Luis racetrack
SAN LUIS (ARGENTINA), November 20th 2008 – The 2008 season of FIA GT Championship ends up on the opposite side of the world, close to the Andes. Unusual racetrack, 6.249,85 meters lenght and 14 width, right in Potrero de los Funes, around a a volcanic lake in the nearby of San Luis - Argentina, close to Mendoza.
“The racetrack is one of the most amazing I’ve ever seen - sais Thomas - the widest for sure! That’s the reason why it will be difficult to get used to it. Tracking the perfect line, finding out the best path, it’s so hard: one can get lost . It is so similar to Singapore bounded by cement barriers. This implies that, sitting on a very low lever, the drivers do not see what happens out of the bends so we must rely on the promptness of commissioners. Average speed will be so high, like in Monza. On the basis of our simulations, there are at least three 200 km/h bends and so many straight away of over 260 km/h. You’ll see! There are even ramps (here the engine will count so much) and descents like in Mugello or SPA. It reminds me even Pergusa, the racetrack in Sicily I am so affectionate to, because it is built around a lake. I pass the racetrack with full marks and I congratulate with the Argentinian organizers for the huge work they have done.
That’s the tenth round and the results of GT2 are already done, with Vilander - Bruni pair heading the ranking, which Thomas has shared the Team Title of AF Corse with.
«If compared with 2007 – sais Biagi - when I won FIA GT1 title, so many things changed: I’m now in a new category (GT2), I have a new team mate, Christian Montanari, and I’ve learnt to drive a vehicle so different from Maserati. I was aware that it would have been so hard and this year and it has been good time spent to get used to the category. During the first part of the season we have performed well, up on the podium for three times during the first 5 races, then something has turned wrong ... I’m moderately satisfied for the pole position in Spa 24 Hours, the world most selective racetrack. Before saying goodbye and before thinking forward to 2009, I wish I could end up this year in the best way».
SAN LUIS - 10th round International FIA GT Championship (+1 GT)
Saturday November 22nd :
13.00-13.20 Free practice
In Zolder, a result opposite from last year
ZOLDER, October 19th 2008 – Exactly one year later, on the same racetrack in Zolder where Thomas Biagi became FIA GT Champion, a completely diffent ending for the second time. The race of the Italian pilot has last the time of a bend due to a violent crash with Rob Bell’s Ferrari that was turned accidentally ahead, after a bump with Mucke’s Aston Martin.
«This leaves a bitter taste – Thomas sais – the victory of Bruni / Vilander with a 50 kg ballast confirms that our vehicle had a very good pace and we could have tried to struggle for for a better result without the ballast …
Unfortunately this scoring blocks the way for second and third place in the Championship. We bet on the last race in the unusual racetrack in San Luis - Argentina. I wish I could leave a good memory on the last stage of this season, I would like to reward the hard work of AF Corse mechanicians ending up in the best way».
ZOLDER RESULT, NINTH STAGE OF FIA GT2 CHAMPIONSHIP:
1) Bruni/Vilander Ferrari F430
2) Malucelli/Ruberti Ferrari F430
3) Lieb/Palttala Porsche 911 GT3 RS (997)
OVERALL RANKING
1) Bruni/Vilander, 85 points
2) Malucelli/Ruberti, 57,5 points
3) Westbrook, 51 points
4) MONTANARI/BIAGI, 39 points
7° During qualifications: Thomas is confident
Thomas Biagi is ready to step up on the foot lever after today´s qualifications valid for the ninth stage Fia Gt2 Championship, that he will attend tomorrow in Zolder, Belgium.
“After feree proofs - sais the pilot from Bologna of AF Corse - I was very much satisfied of our competitiveness, with the third best timing, with a three tenths from the first and a high speed during the race. Unfortunately during official sessions even if first out of the box, as usual to avoid traffic, I found the track dirty with an oil and filled mix, lost during the previous race of Belgian GT. In order not to slip I had to turn out the path of the chicane loosing so much time and I could not confirm the good result of the free proofs”.
Nevertheless, Thomas is quiet and optimistic for tomorrow´s race. “The vehicle runs good; I´m convinced we can have a very good performance. I also feel good phisically”.
The performance of Biagi during the “Run for the heart” - the cycling race of car drivers of Fia Gt on belgian racetrack - is a proof of his good health. He is also satisfied of this result and he is proud of the third place (half serios, half for joking). “I think to be the one who has better felt the endurance meaning, I´ve done 5 km without any stops, while other participants changed at each track tour”.
An oil stain won´t be stopping Thomas Biagi sportivity.
The ninth stage of Fia Gt Championship from Zolder (Belgium) will be broadcast live tomorrow, Sunday October 19th from 13.15 on Sky Sport Extra.
Zolder (Belgium) - Ninth Championship Race of Fia Gt Championship
Official qualifications Gt2
1) Andrew KIRKALDY – Ferrari F430 - 1:30.382
2) Emmanuel COLLARD - Porsche 911 GT3 RS (997) - 1:30.495
3) Marc LIEB - Porsche 911 GT3 RS (997) - 1:30.579
7) Thomas Biagi – Ferrari F430 - 1:31.280
Race for the Earth
ZOLDER - You might think that FIA GT drivers only drive on Saturday or Sunday but today (Friday October 17th), they changed their GT cars for bikes. SRO organised a bicycle race called “Race for the Earth”. This was a sequel to the “Run for the Earth”-event at Nogaro, which was won by Gimmi Bruni.
This time Thomas took part in the race. He teamed up with a member of AF Corse. As a well trained cyclist Thomas took the start of the 1 hour race and could briefly take the lead. He drove with his race shoes and not with shoes adapted to the pedals of the bike. He was encouraged by his team mate Christian Montanari and all the other AF Corse team members. After half an hour, he handed over the bicycle, as it was obliged to race with the same bike and transponder, to his team mate.
After his stint Thomas told that he was slowed down by his shoes. He joked that he had lost a lot of power, but that the tyres were fine. Finally they finished 3rd, while the Phoenix team won this pre-race event.
Peter Crauwels
Biagi ready for Zolder
First on two and then on four wheels!
ZOLDER (Belgium), October 14th 2008 - Thomas Biagi is ready to go to Zolder: on two wheels in a first stage! Tomorrow, friday at 19.30 he will attend the “Run for the heart” that will take place for one hour time on Zolder racetrack.
«I’ve trained intensively in the last two weeks even because there’s also Bruni’s result in the jogging race to be guarded and my main sponsor “Forno D’Asolo” - also owner of the homonym team taking part to the world bicycle female champioship - to be supported. I will ask advice to my fried Gilberto Simoni (twice winner of Italian Tour). My legs are ok, let’s see how are feet», ends up Thomas smiling and joking.
For Thomas will be like an homecoming in this corner of Europe between Belgium and Netherlands. This one won’t be like the other races for the AF Corse driver. All along the 4 Km of Zolder racetrack, he will be presumably thinking back to the race of 2007 when his third place after a perfect and logical race stood for the World FiaGt1 Championship title.
« Coming back to Zolder will be moving – Thomas sais – I cannot forget the moment I spent there last year. Moreover Belgian racetrack fits me, I’ve always been so much competitive since 2001 when I was in F.3000 and I made track - record…
There won’t be much time to look back – Biagi goes on fierce – we must be concentrated on Sunday’s race because we are aware we can do well. Our goal with Ferrari n. 51 of AF Corse is being among the three first positions of the final ranking of the championship to end up the wonderful season of AF CORSE, which already has both team and driver titles.
The vehicle is more and more competitive and this makes me confider for the last two races , Sunday in Zolder and next month on the unusual racetrack of Sant Louis - Argentina. Mechanicians and engeneers of AF Corse are really fantastic: we’ve grown up together this year. ».
Zolder racetrack (Belgium)
Qualification: Saturday, October 18th from 17,15 to 17.50
Live race: Sunday, October 19th from 13,15
Thomas is back from Nogaro with the Team title of AF Corse
NOGARO, October 5th 2008 – He has already jumped up on the podium for celebrating the third place got after an amazing race, when a few hours after the checquered flag the nasty surprise arrived: 30 seconds penalties to Montanari (that means going back to the fifth place) for a contact with Rob Bell in the last-laps.
«That’s a pity – Thomas sais -: a vanished podium, very much deserved indeed. We accept the verdict of the jury and we restart our training for the Championship’s last two rounds. In next stage we will look for a relevant result in order to regain scores versus second and third place in overall ranking. That’s our goal. Next date in Zolder, a lucky racetrack: it was there I gained my second title in FIA GT last year.
We are coming home from Nogaro proud of our excellent performance confirmed by the fact that we crossed the finishing line jest half second (!) from the first, after 2 hours of high speed race, a very demanding championship. If compared with Brno we have changed some details of the car set-up that better fits my driving style now and make me feel more confident. All of us have done a very good job!
My congratulations to Toni Vilander and Gimmi Bruni that have already secured the first place in the Drivers ranking 2008, with a two races advance. A further success together with the first place in the Team ranking: that’s because AF Corse team has showed is worth ans skilful, and I’m proud to take part to it».
NOGARO RACE RESULTS
1) Westbrook/Davison - Porsche 911 GT3 RS (997)
2) Mullen/Piccini - Ferrari F430
3) Vilander/Bruni – Ferrari F430
5) MONTANARI/BIAGI - FERRARI F430
GENERAL RANKING
1) Vilander/Bruni – 74 points
2) Malucelli/Ruberti – 49,5 points
3) Westbrook – 46 points
4) BIAGI/MONTANARI - 39 PUNTI
TEAMS RANKING
1) AF CORSE - 113 points
2) BMS Scuderia Italia – 63 points
3) CR Scuderia – 56 points
Thomas Biagi and Christian Montanari will sprint from first row!
Nogaro (Fra), October 4th 2008 – Thanks to Christian Montanari timing of 1:26.628 during the qualification, our Thomas Biagi will start from first row together with San marino driver, in second position and first among RedHorse cars.
“I’m extremely satisfied of Christian’s result, all my congratulations to him –the driver from Bologna immediately sais after -. What makes me confident and positive is the fact that this morning during the race simulation with full fuel we have been the faster at the same conditions with our competitors.
If compared with Brno we have changed the set-up and I’m very satisfied with this. The car now fits better my driving style. Tomorrow we’ll make our best in ordet to get results we aim to, together with Gimmi Bruni, Toni Vilander and all AF Corse team. This is an high demanding racetrack, but I’m not worried about that because we ca rely on Michelin. Thanks to the men of AF Corse and Ferrari teams for the very good job.”
Tomorrow race live at 13.15.
Starting grid:
1° Westbrook/Davison - Porsche 911 GT3 RS - 1:26.296
2° Montanari/Biagi - Ferrari F430 - 1:26.628
3° Mullen/Piccini - Ferrari F430 - 1:26.808
In France, trying to retake the podium in general ranking
NOGARO (FRA), October 1st 2008 – Gaining score and aiming to go up again in the ranking are mandatory. After Brno great remount, Thomas Biagi wants to gain a step in the general ranking podium. Currently at the fourth place, one single point takes Ferrari F430 #51 apart from Porsche driven by Collard/Westbrook.
The next date this weekend in Nogaro, in south west of France, a perfect racetrack for Ferrari of AF Corse team, that last year gained the podium. Perfect even for Thomas that last year got the pole position and ended up a glowing race with the second place.
«I’m still missing a victory during this season – Thomas Biagi sais – and I would like to do a gift to my fans that this year more than ever have been so close and supportive to me. They followed me not only in well known Italian stages but even abroad. It won’t be easy with such competitive team mate like Bruni/Vilander and many other remarkable outsider.
I am confident: it’s a positive moment I can also rely on excellent and consistent Michelin Tyres that in the last race allowed us to end up without a change! The right premises for a result ...».
Qualifications: Saturday, October 4th from 16.45 to 17.00
Race live on Sky Sport Extra Sunday, October 5th from 13.15
Great comeback for Thomas Biagi in Brno
BRNO, September 14th 2008 – We nearly got it. At the end of this tormeted Czech week end, Thomas Biagi is concluding the two hours race of the seventh round of FIA GT with an excellent fourth place.
«Considering that we started from the last row of the starting grid, it’s with not doubt a very good result – Thomas Biagi sais, satisfied and more relaxed, a few minutes after crossing the finishing line. This fourth place is a prize for the excellent work of engeneers, mechanicians and the whole AF Corse team that proved to be able to “compensate” a critical situation. I wish I could thank them with a place on the podium… We nearly got it. If not for the traffic I encountered in the last rounds of the first stint, we probably could get it.
I thank my team mate, Christian Montanari that just is the middle of the race had been consistent. A very positive result also thank to the reliablility of Michelin tyres, thet allowed us concluding the race with the same set of tyres.
At this stage, we go on working with the maximum effort for the next French race in Nogaro that will take place on October 5th».
7° ROUND, BRNO – RESULT RANKING
1) Bruni – Vilander
2) Janak - Bergmeister
3) Malucelli - Ruberti
4) Biagi – Montanari
RANKING
1) Bruni – Vilander – 69 punti
2) Malucelli – Ruberti – 47,5 punti
3) Collard – Westbrook – 36 punti
4) Biagi – Montanari – 35 punti
Qualifications of Brno race
BRNO, September 13th 2008 – «Probably it is one of the hardest moment in my carreer in FIA GT, since I starter in 2003 – Thomas Biagi sais just down from Ferrari F430 at the end of qualifications in Brno -. We’ve had problems with the car all day long. During the qualification session we went down in the racetrack only for having one single round done, arriving three seconds from the first.
In the last weeks the team has done an excellent work in order to restore the car hardly damaged during the 24 Hours race in Spa. Unfortunately this morning we have had internal problems that we have not solved yet. We must investigate to discover where the clue is. We hope having everything fine by the night, and we’ll be competitive in tomorrow’s race, ready for a grat comeback.
I already passed critical moments in my carreer and I’ll get over this too!»
Qualifications on Saturday, September 13th 2008
1) Mueller – 1:57.266 - Ferrari F430
2) Westbrook – 1:57.481 - Porsche 911 GT3 RS (997)
3) Bruni – 1.57.756 - Ferrari F430
13) Biagi – 2:00.819 - Ferrari F430
Race – Sunday from 13,15 to 15,15
THOMAS BIAGI IS DRIVING IN CZECH REPUBLIC!
During the week end the race will take place in Brno circuit.
BRNO, September 10th 2008 – After the 24 Hours race in Spa and the new two matches format in Bucharest, FIA GT Championship goes back to the classic two hours race. The big Gran Turismo circus lands in fascinating Czech Republic, in Brno autodrome: 5.402 meters that Thomas particularly likes.
«I’m so much determined - Biagi sais – I wish I can soon jump on my car. In all races we disputed we got to a score and till Spa 24 Hours we have always been on the podium. In Belgium I also obtained first pole in GT2. Thinks seemed to work out, then after my team mate went out of track in the night due to bad weather conditions, compromising the race, we lost second place in the ranking. Spa is too much determining in the championship because score counts three times. It’s like Russian roulette: if you survive you have high chances to get the title, otherwise you have to look forward to next year.
This is time for Brno: a track that I really do like, it reminds me of Mugello (Italy), the circuit I absolutely prefer. The track is very technical, with high speed bends and harsh breaks. All ingredients that challenge a good pilot… Moreover I have good memory of the grounding, like the fourth following win at the first appearance in the class. This is still an unbeaten record that I lately improved in Donington, where Matteo Bobbi and I gained the fifth success over five races.
My first goal now is to bring AF Corse to the team title and support my teammates Bruni and Vilander to win the driver ranking. At last, by the year end, I wish I can jump on the higher step of podium also in this category and maybe having my second place back in the ranking…».
Saturday from 17,15 to 17.50 qualifications.
Sunday from 13,15 to 15,15 race.
THOMAS BIAGI CONCENTRATES ON NEXT RACE IN BRNO
BUCHAREST, August 24th 2008 – Thomas Biagi expected something different from what occoured during this sixth date of FIA GT championship. Anyway the Italian pilot has shown his usual competitiveness: on Saturday during the first “manche” he was finishing the race at the third place just before being rammed by Maassen who lost control and whose Corvette brought Ferrari 430 out of track. Despite the bump, Thomas has started again closing fifth in the race.
«I have to leave this weekend behind my shoulder – Thomas sais after the two days in Romania – even yesterday a sure podium vanished after a collision with a GT1 car. Luckily the race was not completely compromised and I arrived to the end. Today (Sunday, ndr) I haven’t even got in the car…
After Spa, I wish I gained the best score I could in order to gain the second place back in the global ranking. I wish I could jump on my car the sooner! My mind is on next date at Brno, in the Czech Republic on September 14th. I’m confident: we have all the skills to perform well and I can always rely both on AF Corse that is working so good and on Michelin tyres committable and performing».
The roumanian race was disputed on two days: first manche on Saturday lasting one hour with start based on quanlifications and second manche on Sunday, always one hour race with start based on the first proof ranking. Scores count half and refer to each manches.
1st MANCHE RESULT: 1) Bell/Kirkaldy; 2) Vilander/Bruni; 3) Westbrook/Collard; 5) Montanari/Biagi.
2nd MANCHE RESULT: 1) Bell/Kirkaldy; 2) Vilander/Bruni; 3) Westbrook/Collard; 11) Montanari/Biagi.
Global ranking: 1) Vilander/Bruni 59 ps; 2) Malucelli/Ruberti 41,5 ps 3)Westbrook/Collard 36 ps; 6) Montanari/Biagi 30 ps.
Total 24 Hours of Spa
Last weekend the 60th edition of the 24 hours of Spa was held on the legendary circuit in the Belgian Ardennes. This 5th round of the 2008 FIA GT championship caused mixed feelings for Thomas Biagi. He scored a very nice pole position in GT2, but his Ferrari No.51 had to retire from the race after more than 10 hours.
Before the Belgian race, Thomas Biagi and Christian Montanari were 2nd in the championship standings with a delay of 11 points on their AF Corse team mates Bruni and Vilander.
For the 24 hour race Biagi and Montanari were joined by Matias Russo, driver of Advanced Engineering in FIA GT, and Dominik Farnbacher, currently racing in the American Le Mans Series with a Ferrari F430 GT2.
The activities started on Wednesday with a parade of the race cars. On Thursday there were 2 free practice and 2 qualifying sessions. Thomas drove a fantastic lap during the first qualifying on Thursday evening. With a time of 2’21”504 he did put the No.51 Ferrari on a provisional pole position. The time of Thomas was not improved anymore, so he scored his first pole position in GT2!
On Saturday the race started under a cloudy sky. Thomas took the start on the No.51 AF Corse Ferrari. In the first corner he was hindered by a spinning Corvette and fell back to 9th position in GT2. Thomas lost some time because he was stuck behind a few slower GT2 cars and he really could go faster. After at about 55 minutes he came into the pits to hand over the car to Montanari.
The weather remained unpredictable. Sometimes there was some fine rain and from time to time it started to rain a bit harder. This made it very difficult for the teams to make the right tyre choice, a typical Francorchamps-situation.
At 21h45 Thomas climbed back into the cockpit of the Ferrari F430 for his second ride. He did a long stint of 2h30. Afterwards he was very tired but he had a good feeling about the car and the race. Then Christian Montanari took over. Just after 2 o’clock in the morning he sadly crashed at Blanchimont, a very fast and challenging curve, when lying 4th in class. The Ferrari F430 was damaged and had to retire.
The GT2 class was won by the BMS Ferrari, with 2 laps advantage over the Prospeed Porsche and the AF Corse No.50 was a further 3 laps back in 3rd place. With this bad result Thomas lost several positions in the championship and they are now 23 points behind the leaders Bruni/Vilander.
Let’s hope for good results during the two 60’ races in the Bucharest streets in 3 weeks time.
1 Malucelli/Ruberti/Camathias/Rigon Ferrari F430 GT2
2 Collard/Westbrook/Lieb Porsche 997 GT3 RSR
3 Bruni/Vilander/Melo/Salo Ferrari F430 GT2
Peter Crauwels
The night falls down at Spa-Francorchamps
The night falls down at Spa-Francorchamps
Just after midnight Thomas Biagi came into the pits to end his 2h30m stint. He was in 4th position when he handed the car over to Christian Montanari. Thomas was really tired after this long second stint.
When Thomas got into the car, the AF Corse team opted for rain tyres. This proved to be the wrong decision. 20 minutes later, Thomas came back into the pits to change the rain tyres for slicks. The weather conditions made it very difficult for all the teams to make the right tyre choice. The circuit was at certain moments not completely dry due to the slight rain, but the asphalt was also not wet enough to drive faster with rain tyres or intermediates. During his evening-stint, Thomas drove very regular times between 2’27” and 2’28”. When he was driving, there was a beautiful firework next to the circuit!
Just after midnight it began to rain again on some parts of the 7,004 km track. The circuit speaker announced that they were expecting rain over the whole circuit during the night.
The battle in GT2 was still very close. The first 5 cars were within 1 lap of each other at 1 o’clock
Pre-Race & 1st Hour of the Total 24 Hours of Spa
SPA - At 4 o’clock in the afternoon, Thomas Biagi took the start at the wheel of the AF Corse Ferrari F430. He was on pole but in the lap he lost a lot of places when he had to avoid a spinning Corvette. Afterwards he lost some time behind the slower GT2 cars. When he had passed them he really showed that he could drive a lot quicker. At the end of his stint he was one of the fastest GT2 cars on track. After at about 1 hour he made a pit stop. It was a very quick stop by the AF Corse team. They changed the tyres, refuelled the car and Christian Montanari took over from Thomas.
At 17.30h it really started to rain. It was not raining very heavily but the track is getting wet and the lap times are some 10-15 seconds slower than in normal conditions. These weather conditions are making it very tricky for all the drivers.
Just before the start there was a parade of Porsches to honour Paul Frère, who died earlier this year. Paul was a former racing driver, who won the Le Mans 24 hours in 1960 in a Ferrari. He was also a famous journalist and played an important role in the organisation of the Spa 24 Hours.
Peter Crauwels
Pole position for Thomas Biagi in Spa Francoschamps
SPA (BEL), 1ST of August - During the 3rd and final qualifying session on Friday, the fastest lap time in GT2, set by Thoma Biagis during the first qualifying session on Thursday evening, was not improved. So after this session it was sure that the AF Corse no. 51 Ferrari was on pole in GT2 for the 60th edition of the 24 Hours of Spa!
At the press conference after this final qualifying session Thomas said that he was very happy with his first pole position in GT2 and that it was his most beautiful and most important one up so far in his career. He said that there were mixed feelings at the AF Corse team after the qualifying sessions on Thursday. Their team mates in the no. 50 Ferrari had problems during night qualifying and they couldn’t drive during this session. This forced the no. 50 to start from the back of the grid.
Peter Crauwels
Thomas Biagi at Spa for one-day long marathon!
SPA (BELGIUM), July 31st 2008 – Self motivated, determined, psychologically and physically trained, Thomas Biagi lands in Belgium to face the most important race of FIA GT calendar: Spa-24 Hours, the turning-point date of the championship. He is at his third attendance this year at the 24-hour races after Daytona and Le Mans.
Many are betting on this race, for both prestige and score: the ranking is based on a virtual goal on the placement after 6 and 12 hours.
«I trained specifically – Thomas Biagi sais – for this peculiar and exciting race, an hard proof for the vehicle and the pilot. Many factors determine the final result: stress, heat, rain that is forecasted for Sunday, but even tiredness after racing for one day.
I wish I gain a good placement, last year we arrived second but we were leading one our before the end… moreover, we’ve just been on a positive trend and I wish it lasts…maybe improving…».
On Ferrari N.51 of AF Corse Team, together with his mate Christian Montanari, ther will be also Matias Russo and Dominik Farnbacher during this sixtieth edition.
The 24-hours race of Spa will start at 16,00 on Saturday, August 2nd while the chequered flag the following day on Sunday, August 3rd at 16,00.
After two free proofs Thomas recorded a 5th best timing. «My objective is a good balance in the race more than pure ranking – Biagi sais – anyway I’m satisfied we are close in few tenth».
First qualification at 20.30 and the second in the night at 22.
I twill be possible to feel the race from Belgium on Sky: Saturday August 2nd at 15,30 on Sky Sport 3, at 15,40 Sky Sport Extra, at 18,30 Sky Sport 2 and again at 20,30 on Sky Sport 2. Sunday August 3rd at 10,30 and 14,00 on Sky Sport 3.
Live on web: http://gt1live.tv/afCorseStream.html
PRE-QUALIFICATIONS – GT2
1) AF Corse N. 50 2:23.231
2) Prospeed Competition N.61 2:23.673
3) CR Scuderia N. 55 2:23.992
4) CR Scuderia N. 56 2:24.384
5) AF Corse N. 51 2:24.539
Thomas confirms its second position in Germany
OSCHERSLEBEN, July 6th 2008 – Once again on the podium, this is the result of the fourth round of FIA GT for Thomas Biagi, ended up with a long and sincere hug with his friend and team manager Amato Ferrari. “I’m am used to Oschersleben podium, in the last five years I’ve been three time first in the rank and second for two times… I can say that Montanari and I are well improving during our first season with Ferrari F430, since then we’ve always been on the podium, even if second.
Changes in set up and after morning warm up, for an higher vehicle reactivity, worked well. Anyway I battled in my stint with Maluccelli at first, then Kirkaldy and Westbrook’s Porsche in the end. A hard struggle but we got it giving in the hand of Amato Ferrari again a double succes. We’re going to Spa hoping our dream can last”.
Oschersleben results - fourth round FIA GT
1) Vilander-Bruni - AF Corse
2) Biagi Montanari - AF Corse
3) Bell-Kirkaldy - CR Scuderia
Pictures by Peter Crauwles
First rankings of GT2 in Germany are reserved to AF Corse
OSCHERSLEBEN (Germany), July 5th 2008 – during the fourth round of FIA GT Championship on Oschersleben racetrack in Germany, we can say that “virtual” first raw of GT2 (in fact they start all together with GT1) has been dominated by the team from Piacenza, thanks to the pole position of Bruni/Vilander and second best time of Biagi/Montanari.
«During the free trial – Thomas Biagi says - I disputed a long run for race simulation, moreover my pace was very good and Michelin tyres consistent. Starting ahead in this winding racetrack was essential and we got it thanks to Christian excellent round. Elements and feelings that make me calm and positive looking at tomorrow’s race».
Sunday it will be possibile to see Oschersleben live on Sky Sport Extra from 13,00 or on the web-site http://gt1live.tv/afCorseStream.html with the extra chance of sitting in the car with Thomas thanks to the two webcams in the vehicle compartement.
RESULTS OF SATURDAY’S QUALIFICATIONS:
1) Bruni/Vilander – AF Corse – Ferrari F430
2) Montanari/Biagi – AF Corse – Ferrrari F430
3) Mullen/Narchos - CR Scuderia - Ferrari F430
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4, 3, 2… Thomas positive trend seems to last!
OSCHERSLBEN (Ger), July 3rd 2008 - In certain racetracks a pilot feels at home and can give his best or even more. Oschersleben in Germany certainly fits Thomas Biagi who in the last four years has won three times in 2003, 2005, 2007 and in 2006 got a second place (it’s not only a question of “cabala”...). In this last race he started last because of a penalty and regained the podium. A true achievement!!!
«I like Oschersleben curves – Thomas sais – and I am at my best on those straightways. This year I ‘m driving a new car the F430 and even if at the beginning of this season it was new to me (car and categoty) but I admit that time after time I’m finding my pace as the performance demonstrates. Fourth, third and second in the first three dates on the championship. The highest step of the podium is still missing… let’s see! Competition is strong but we are ready to battle!».
Thomas Biagi has just come back from an intensive fit-training and a cycle of medical check-up by Formula Medicine in Viareggio under the scrupulous care of Doc. Riccardo Ceccarelli. He participates at the fourth FIA GT round with the second place gained in Adria after AF Corse team-mates, Tony Vilander e Gimmy Bruni. Same as the official ranking, where two AF corse cars hold first and second places.
We remind you that after this date you can follow Thomas performance directly from its comparteement: the “on board” cameras will allow the race-live from the tracks and Thomas concentrated while driving.
All this on website: http://gt1live.tv/afCorseStream.html
POINTS RANKING:
1) Bruni – Vilander: 28; 2) Biagi – Montanari 19; 3) Malucelli – Ruberti 16;
Oscherslben programme – Fourth round of FIA GT Championship
Saturday, July 5th from 17.15 to 17.50 - qualifications
Sunday, July 6th from 13.15 to 15.15 – race – live on Sky Sport Extra
Second place for Thomas Biagi during Adria nightrace
ADRIA, June 21st - «Beginning of this season we ranked fourth in Silverstone, then we got third in Monza and then second. Let’s stop here…
At the start of the race I suffered for the behaviour of one of my colleagues, senior and experienced driving in a different class than mine, who blocked my way, loosing his time in the attemp of frustating me rather than defining his strategy. Once I shook off everything was fine, but the race was then damaged, breakes were even stretching for the high temperature.
During last stint I forced at maximum in order to restrain the rageful comeback of Ferrari from Bms Scuderia Italia.
I’m very much sastified of the second place too: Gimmi Bruni would in any case be out of reach for us. We have consolidated our second rank and are more optimistic for the next proofs in Germany and the most important one in Spa that will be fundamental in detemining the candidate for this GT2 Championship.
Adria results – third round FIA GT
1) Vilander – Bruni – Af Corse
2) Biagi – Montanari – Af Corse
3) Malucelli – Ruberti – Bms Scuderia Italia
Thomas Biagi starts third in Adria
Great result for first qualification in GT2
ADRIA, Friday, June 20th 2008 – Thomas Biagi is smiling and satisfied stepping down from his Ferrari F430 with the third best timing during the qualifications for the third date (the second driven on Italian racetracks) of FIA GT Championship.
«I’m very happy with this result – Biagi sais - we got third after Gimmy Bruni, in my opinon the best in this category, all my congratulations to him! Collard’s Porche came in between us and the other F430 of AF Corse team, we’re all in a range of a few tenths.
I just can say I’m satisfied with my performance in this highly battled session, my first qualification of this season and first absolute in GT2.
I want to thank all AF Corse team always supportino me at bst and Micheling for suplling me robust tyres. Today we learned something more about this Ferrari too and I think I’m on the right way. All this makes me in a positive mood and I hope in tomorrow’s race».
Tomorrow morning (Saturday) warm up from 11,40 to 12,10 while motors and lighting (evening drive…) will be on at 19,50 for the two hours race live on Sky Sport 2.
“Lights on” for Thomas Biagi in Adria
ADRIA, June 18th 2008 – On Saturday 21st June at 7 post 50 in the evening the second Italian race of FIA GT Championship will start and will be considered valid as third proof of 2008. Fascinating Gran Turismo cars will battle along the 2702 metres of Adria International Raceway, a first rate building, even not particularly long, approved also for F1 tests, an high demanding course made by burning straight and and sharp bends.
«I like this racetrack – Thomas Biagi sais – the first time I drove there I had a record timing that it is still unbroken. I’m longing for the race in Adria, close to my home and to my “Cento Fan Club” who will be there supporting me. I wish this positive trend with my Ferrari will continue: after the fouth place in Silverstone and third in Monza I will do my best to get a good result».
First time of FIA GT in Veneto was in October 2006 and then last year the race was held during the evening; a so much successful try that it was decided to repeat it even this year.
The race will last around 2 hours and will start at 19.50 with artificial lighting that will create a special and charming atmosphere even for the audience.
As for the program, Thomas will be busy with free proofs on Friday in the morning and then qualifications are planned in the late afternoon from 17.15 to 17.50. On Saturday warm up from 11.40 to 12.10 and then start (in speed) at 19.50.
The race will be broadcast live on Sky Sport 2 on next Saturday 21st June from 19.45.
Thomas Biagi will take part to Le Mans 24 Hours driving Ferrari F430
«Le Mans 24 Hours is one of the world’s most fascinating and prestigious races and I coludn’t miss it! It will be my personal second presence, the first time was in 2004 with Ferrari 575. This year I’ll be honoured to be at the wheel of a Ferrari F430, alined by my team AF Corse; I want to thank everyone for giving me the chance to feel the emotions of this so hard as fascinating race».
Thomas next challenge on the historical Sarthe Circuit will take place next 14th – 15th June. A considerably professional team for this epic race: the title holders of FIA GT will be at the wheel of car n. 78 of AF Corse racing stable: Thomas Biagi for GT1 and Toni Vilander for GT2. Together with them Christian Montanari, the fast from Sanmarino, Thomas new car mate in 2008 Championship, where they are now ranked second after two races.
In the pre-qualifications of the first weekend of June, the three got the fifth best performance in GT2 category, despite race-proofs were held with lasting bad weather. The race – organized by the Western Automobile Club (ACO) – is disputed since 1923, apart for some exceptions, on the 13 kilometers long non permanent track even on ordinary country roads.
Next weekend (14th – 15th June) sporting focus will move to Le Mans, with a strong mediatic covering all over the world; Italy will be there with the live broadcasts of Eurosport and Nuvolari channels.
It will also be possible to connect to the official website in order to see the race motion pictures: http://www.lemans.org/24heuresdumans/pages/accueil_fr.html
First podium for Thomas Biagi in GT2
Second place after Porche ban
Monza, 18th May 2008 – Dramatic turn of the events! After podium celebrations and press conference, in the evening the announcement of the umpires: Collard/Westbrook first to cross the finishing line in Monza, are then banned and the pair Thomas Biagi/Christian Montanari goes from third to second place.
In fact Porche was first at the checquered flag, followed by Ferrari F430 of Af Corse driven by Bruni/Vilander and then Biagi/Montanari; after a few hours from the end of the race, the jury’s resolution.
Thomas got the news while he was celebrating with his fans in the private room in Monza circuit.
«Compared to Silverstone - Thomas says – we had already done a wide step forward from fourth to third. After this last events we can be more than happy because we’ve got an excellent second place in Monza that gives us good chances for next Italian date in Adria within one month.
Each km driven together allows us to discover Ferrari F430 strenghts and weaknesses; today it has given its best. During my turn I was ableto overtake a great pilot like Bell: I outstripped him in the external of the first variant bend. After this moment I gave 110% of myself to take the pace of team mate Jimmy Bruni who knows how Ferrari F430 works and he drives so fast! High performance of my companion Christian Montanari and a very good job of the whole team as well. Vey positive response of Michelin tires which made me improve my timing and keep the speed while I was running out of fuel, showing then their consistency.
I want to thank all my fans in partcular Cento Fan Club that came in Monza despite the rain and celebrated me on the podium. Thanks again!».
The score is for the moment sub judicio since Collard/Westbrook Porche has filed an appeal.
Resuls of FIA GT Championship’ Second Race– Monza (Italy)
1. Vilander/Bruni - Ferrari F430
2. Biagi/Montanari - Ferrari F430
3. Babini/Davies - Ferrari F430
Thomas Biagi in the first line on Italian racetrack in Monza
Monza, May 17th 2008 – First-rate result for Ferrari F430 driven by Thomas Biagi who gets second best timing on the racetrack in Monza and he is sixt absolute: first line even before Ferrari, leaving various GT1 vehicles behind his shoulder. «This result - Thomas says – shows the growing feeling with Christian Montanari. We’ve been better compared to Silverstone, a wide step forward. We got the right way and we had a very good pace during the race. AF Corse and Michelin have done a very good job too. It twill be an exciting race: GT2 cars have run qualifications with a better track-bed than GT1. Tomorrow there will be various overtakings, in facts GT1s reach 20 km/h higher on the stretch. Battling and show for the public. I invite all the fans to come in Monza and see the race live. We’ll have fun! I would like to greet especially my Cento Fan Club that is already (Saturday) here to support me». In the afternoon, right before qualifications started, a special guest was wandering by AF Corse in Thomas Biagi boxes: “His Majesty” Kimi Raikkonen, World Champion of F1 with Ferrari and friends to Toni Vilander. May, 17th – Saturday Qualifications – FIA GT2 1. Collard/Westbrook - Porsche 997 1’50”140 2. Biagi/Montanari - Ferrari F430 1’50”441 3. Mullen/Sugden - Ferrari F430 1’50”649
Thomas fourth in the rank, if only the safety car…
SILVERSTONE (GBR), April 20th 2008 – It would have been a well-deserved podium, but the safety car has spoiled the new adventure start of Thomas Biagi in FIA GT Championship; it went down in the racetrack to reshuffle and to make people stare at it and not for a concrete need: in fact the wheel lost by a GT1 car had already been cleared away by the officials.... Ferrari F430 driven by Thomas arrived fourth on the fabulous Silverstone racetrack checquered flag. «Anyway, I’m satisfied with this fourth place – the Italian pilot said at the end of the race – if only the safety car didn’t drive in and damaged the strategy (perfect since then) I think I would be here talking about a seond or a third place. No problem: there is a very good understanding with my new team mate and we are now learning secerets and virtues in this strong vehicle». «I’m happy with Michelin intremediate tyres which performed well and with the whole team who worked in an excellent way: the feeling for all the AF Corse staff is growing day by day. I’m optimistic for the future and I can’t wait to drive in the car and go down in the race in Monza, within a month. There are high standing car drivers in this category, but we are ready to batthe. I’m confident with the race we will play at home». 1 – Vilander/Bruni – Ferrari F430 2 – Bell/Kirkaldy – Ferrari F430 3 – Ruberti/Malucelli – Ferrari F430 4 - BIAGI/MONTANARI - FERRARI F430
My heart on the Red Horse…
Thomas Biagi new challenge get the start on the English race track
SILVERSTONE, April 16th 2008 – Next Sunday on the high-speed Silverstone track, the 12th editon of FIA GT Championship is starting again; last season was absolutely leaded by Thomas Biagi. On thes same track - 5.141 km lenght, one of the better shaped, faster and more demanding - Thomas laid the basis of his success winning in pair with Mika Salo and getting his name on the Tourist Trophy, the most desired prize in the car racing world. As it is well known by his fans, this year Thomas has bravely chosen to compete in a “hot” arena, the GT2 class, driving a Ferrari F430 of AF Corse Team together with Christian Montanari, 2007 best beginner and already team mate in Vitaphone Racing Team. «I already won with Ferrari in 2003 and coming back is such a good feeling; I am fond of the Red Horse. There is no need to introduce Amato Ferrari Team and it’s already a big family to me. I’ve not yet tested so much the new to me F430 and I start now to go in deeper, but we will join the fight with great strenght since the first race. I love Silverstone with its fast bends, I am aware that our competitors are first-rate ones and we could not give away any single detail. I trust my Team, Michelin friends and my team-mate who is weel-trained and mature.». This is the 10th time FIAT GT is held on the English racetrack in Northamptonshire and a considerable number of Ferrari is lined up in GT2 class (nine F430, included Tomas #51 at the starting line), together with three Porsche 997. Different than previous announcement, Aston Martin Vantage GT2 will not be at the starting line due to developement issues.Hear Thomas first impressions!
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First good proof in Monza for Thomas Biagi
Satisfied for the FIA GT collective test results
MONZA, 14th march 2008 - First official tests ended up with satisfaction for Thomas Biagi. Those two days in Monza National Autodrome have been useful for the Italian pilot to be more familiar with the new car, Ferrari F430 of AF Corse Team. «I’m happy with those first kilometres run in this team mood: we are first getting in touch but there is already a good confidence with both technicians and my team mate, Cristian Montanari». At the end of today’s tests, Thomas has steadily driven with the same speed of his category top drivers. «I went down in the racing track quiet and determined, not looking for absolute performance; for these days my intent was getting used to the new car and to GT2 driving style, a more accurate one is required by the less horsepowers. I can say that driving Ferrari is always very much exciting».
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