It is on a circuit that exudes racing and excitement, where the stands vibrate with every lap, that Team IDEC SPORT will be competing on July 4 and 6. This technical 4.909 km track is the venue for the third round of the ELMS Championship, in which the #18 crew, in the colors of Genesis Magma Racing, will be keen to maintain their lead. In the #28 car, Paul Lafargue and Job Van Uitert will be reunited with their teammate, Paul-Loup Chatin.
Imola is one of the few European circuits that runs counterclockwise. Characterized by its narrowness, it is very demanding on the mechanics. With 12 left-hand turns and 9 right-hand turns, the Italian track is known for being unforgiving to drivers. The entire field agrees that it is one of the most difficult circuits to complete. It is important to find a good compromise between top speed and downforce in order to take the kerbs well. Traffic management also seems to be an essential factor. Not to mention the sometimes very unstable weather in Emilia-Romagna at this time of year, which can complicate tyre choices and strategies. So a unique challenge and a strategic race await our crews.
Nicolas Minassian, Team Principal
“I’m very happy to be back at this old-fashioned circuit, which I love, as do all the drivers. The cars are in ELMS configuration after Le Mans, and both they and the team are ready. We are approaching this race with humility, without pressure, but with rigor. The goal remains to finish in the top 5, to have a clean race, without penalties or accidents. Strategy will be very important because it is difficult to overtake at Imola.“
Paul-Loup Chatin, driver of the #28 alongside Paul Lafargue and Job Van Uitert
“I am very happy to be back with IDEC SPORT for this third round of the ELMS and, of course, with my two teammates as well as Jamie, Mathys, and Dani in the #18 car. Imola is a magnificent circuit that we really like. The team is doing an extraordinary job, and I hope we can give them the result they deserve. Things will eventually turn out well for us. I can’t wait to be in Italy!”
Dani Juncadella, driver of the #18 with Mathys Jaubert and Jamie Chadwick
“I know Imola very well, having raced on this circuit last year and at the start of the season for the WEC. I’m looking forward to reuniting with the team and my teammates after such a long time since the last round at Le Castellet. Of course, we are well placed, but we need to approach this third round with humility. With Jamie and Mathys, we always take it one race at a time. Especially since this Italian track is very demanding and difficult to overtake on, which is why it’s important to qualify well. Strategy will also play an important role, but I have complete confidence in the team, who know what they’re doing.“
Before gathering for the start on Sunday, July 6 at 12:00 p.m., Team IDEC SPORT will participate in collective tests on Thursday, followed by free practice on Friday and Saturday and qualifying on Saturday afternoon.
IDEC SPORT defends its title
A successful pit stop can save drivers precious seconds. And none of this would be possible without the mechanics responsible for changing the tires. The pit lane at the Imola circuit will be the scene of the traditional pit stop challenge.
As two-time European champions, the Team IDEC SPORT tire changers are defending their title.
See you on Thursday, July 3 for the qualifying rounds before the final on Friday, July 4.
Written by Stéphanie VAL.
