Introduction Press release of the last event V de V Endurance at Estoril - November, 18-19-20th 2011
Host to the last instalment of the 2011 V de V saga, the Circuito do Estoril in Lisbon’s suburbs, is one of the most beautiful in the world. Although it was the scene of Ayrton Senna’s first win in Formula 1 in 1985, it was axed from the calendar in 1997. However, so appreciated is this track and so admired its setting, that Estoril has continued to stage rounds of other major world championships.
Highly prized by a Russian agent during the Second World War - supposed to have been the inspiration for James Bond - Estoril is the ideal seaside resort, less than half an hour by Metro from the “White City”. But we’re just as interested in what’s going to happen.
The two major V de V Endurance Challenges, GT/Touring and Proto, will be here for their final rounds.
In Proto, there is currently a dead heat for the lead in the standings between Jean-Lou Rihon and Nick Padmore in number 34, and Philippe Mondolot and David Zollinger - twice Champions - in n°1. But others, such as Bruno Bazaud in n°69 and Grégory Fargier in n°2 could still have a say in the title.
In GT, it’s a three-way tie that will doubtless result in a fierce battle between the two IMSA Performance Matmut Porsches; n°1 - belonging to reigning champions Gibon and Bourret who, assisted by Belloc, recently won the Magny-Cours 6 Hours - and n°76 driven by Anthony Pons and Raymond Narac, Championship leaders since the start of the season and strong favourites. Also involved will be 2009 Champions, Eric Mouez and David Loger at the wheel of their Porsche 997 Cup S n°3, who are second in the table, 17 points behind.
The atmosphere in the paddock – open to the public as always – should be relaxed if the sun graces us with its presence, but whatever the weather, it certainly won’t be Christmas for everyone on the track.
Reply With Quote
Never heard of that before.
