Gianni Morbidelli wins inaugural race
Gianni Morbidelli triumphed in the inaugural Speedcar race
this afternoon at the Dubai Autodrome with an 8 second lead
over the two other podium drivers German, Uwe Alzen and Austrian,
Mathias Lauda.
With the exception of Gianni, starting from pole position
and dominating the race through all of the 20 laps, the race
was thrilling and close with drivers battling for position
down to the last lap.
Mathias Lauda qualified second, however, had to concede his
position to Uwe Alzen who started fourth on the grid. The
German's handling of the V8 stockcar was impressive considering
that this morning was the first time he drove the car.
David Terrien drove with heart and won fans with his performance
when his car went into a spin causing him to fall to 8th position.
He still battled his way back up the order to finish in 4th.
David's team mate Hasher Al Maktoum followed 7 seconds behind.
Apart from Gianni Morbidelli who stole the show, the other
ex-F1 drivers did not fare as well. Johnny Herbert managed
to finish all 20 laps with engine trouble that slowed him
down. He will have the engine replaced in time for tomorrows
second race. Ukyo Katayama retired after 7 laps in which he
and Stefan Johansson collided twice. Jean Alesi finished in
6th place and admitted to making a few mistakes that cost
him some positions.
Gianni said at the press conference, It was an excellent
inaugural race and gave us all a chance to size up our competition.
It was hard though and long, but exciting and I can't wait
for the next one.
Race 2 will be held tomorrow as part of the Grand Racing
events also featuring GP2 Asia at the Dubai Autodrome before
the Series races in Indonesia next month.
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