Sweltering Misano Victory For Frank Bird
Round two of the Fanatec GT World Challenge Europe Sprint Cup took place this weekend at a sweltering Misano track in Italy and saw Cumbrian racing driver Frank Bird emerge with a victory.
Driving for the German-based Haupt Racing Team in the PBM and Hager-backed Mercedes-AMG GT3, Penrith-born Frank was again teamed up with Australian Jordan Love in the Silver Cup class whereby the duo were hoping to continue their good form from the opening round at Brands Hatch where they scored a double podium.
Despite the intense heat throughout the weekend, the pair were third fastest in Free Practice before claiming second in Pre-Qualifying and going one better in Qualifying which allowed a good grid position and pole position in class.
Taking the first stint in the hour-long opening race on Saturday, Love gave the team a great foundation before Bird took over and continued to push for the second half hour, whereby he duly brought the car home to an amazing and well-deserved victory in the Silver Cup class.
Sunday’s race was held in even hotter conditions and the pair started from P3 in class on the grid from where they battled with a trio of other Silver Cup competitors throughout. Despite not being able to replicate Saturday’s heroics, Frank claimed fourth at the flag as he just missed out on another podium in what was a close finish.
Frank Bird, #77Mercedes-AMG Team HRT:
“Saturday was a mega day with pole and win in the Silver Cup class showing we had good pace overall also. Today was not the best day as we seemed to lose some performance so qualifying wasn’t fully maximised which put us slightly further back than planned on the grid. The race was tricky but we just didn’t have the overall pace and we fought till the end to finish P4. Not the smoothest day but Saturday made up for it. Thanks to the team for a great car, my teammate Jordan for a great job and to our sponsors and my dad. I’m really looking forward to the next round at Hockenheim.”
Pictures courtesy of www.gt-world-challenge-europe.com
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