Andrew Palmer ready for Spa 24 debut

Andrew Palmer will make his maiden appearance at Spa-Francorchamps this weekend (July 23-26) when the iconic circuit not only plays host to round four of this year’s Blancpain Endurance Series but also one of sportscar racing’s most revered events. 

The 67th running of the 24 Hours of Spa will mark the first time that the 21-year-old and Lamborghini Huracán GT3 have raced at the Belgian track. The twice-around-the-clock endurance event also offers Palmer and his GRT Grasser Racing team-mates, Fabio Babini and Jeroen Mul, the opportunity to bounce back from what has been a tough start to their 2015 Blancpain Endurance Series campaign.

While somewhat disappointing results from the previous two rounds of the championship at Paul Ricard and Silverstone could have dampened Palmer’s spirits, the youngest member of Lamborghini’s GT3 Junior Driver roster is feeling positive about the challenge ahead.

“Spa is one of those tracks that everyone knows about,” enthused Palmer. “I grew up dreaming about racing here one day so it’s a real honour to have the opportunity to actually do it. Although I have driven here before, this will be my first time racing around Spa. But I’m really excited.”

Palmer actually drove his first laps of the grand prix venue during last month’s official test session, where he and the GRT Grasser Racing Team posted the second fastest time in both sessions. However, the Spyder Active Athlete is well aware of the work that lies ahead in order to prepare for the Blancpain Endurance Series’ blue riband event.

“As is always the case with an unfamiliar track, I know I’ve still got some improvements to make,” admitted the young Californian. “But we had a really successful test and I’m fairly confident we can be on the pace come race day. The entire team worked hard to ensure that we found a set-up that all of the drivers are happy with.

“Although 24 hours is a long time, these races often end up being more of a sprint to the finish! But we know we have the ability to be at the front of the pack after our performance in Monza, and that of the sister car at Paul Ricard. From here on in it’s about hitting our targets, staying out of trouble and hopefully bringing the car home with a good result.”

European viewers can watch Palmer’s fourth Blancpain Endurance Series outing of the season live on Motors TV this Saturday from 15:00 local time, while www.blancpain-gt-series.com will also carry a live stream and timing.


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