The 2004 Ferrari Challenge started in Imola this weekend with a positive start from Max Mugelli.  The Tuscan driver from Ronta (Florence) has participated in this championship for three consecutive years and has brought home some prestigious results, including third place in the world finale of the Pirelli Trophy in Misano 2002 and  last season’s victory in the endurance race in Vallelunga

This weekend’s race was tainted due to a technical probelm - after a few laps in the sprint race, the Ferrrai 360 Modena’s driveshaft broke down. This caused a little fire which was quickly put out.

The starting grid for the endurance race is based on the order of arrival of the sprint race so according to the regulations, Max was forced to start in the second last position on the grid, he was able to make up a few postitions and finished in seventh place.

Max Mugelli:

“If I  look back at  what happened this weekend, I could say that I am partly satisfied and partly disappointed. The problem with the driveshaft right at the start of the sprint race wasn’t at all necessary! Not only did this not allow me to finish the race but also highly influenced the  endurance race.

By starting at the end of the grid, I was no longer able to fight for the first positions. I tried not to exaggerate at the start and tried not to take too many risks so I could finish the race well.

It was a little frightening for me when one of my adversaries spun through 180°, right in front of me. Luckily I was able to avoid him but I lost 5 seconds. All in all, I must say that I’m content.  However I don’t want to make being at the end of the grid a habit! 

For the next race in Monza, I would like to be able to fight for the top postions.”