Under the Spanish sun, but with the traditional breeze for this time of the year, the opening race of the 2024 IAME Euro Series took place at the Circuito Internacional de Zuera. A strong grid of 210 drivers, including a robust 115 competitors in the X30 Senior category, promised intense competition and a thrilling start to the season. The strategic location near the vibrant city of Zaragoza added to the allure, providing participants and spectators alike with a perfect blend of exciting racing action and the rich cultural experiences the region has to offer.
X30 Mini's Young Prowess: Warner Triumphs in Zuera Thriller
In a heart-pounding display of talent and tenacity, the X30 Mini category delivered intense moments at the Circuito Internacional de Zuera. The young guns showcased their skills during Friday’s qualifying practice showdown. Will Green (Jamie Green Racing) emerged as the top qualifier, setting the tone for an action-packed weekend, ahead of Jarlath Sayer (Fusion Motorsport) and Austin Newstead (BMR).
As the Saturday Qualifying Heats unfolded, keeping spectators on the edge of their seats, it was Zdenek Babicek (TEPZ Racing) who came out on top clinching the first of the two Superheats positions, with Jarlath Sayer taking the other. The Superheats intensified the battle, with Babicek remaining in the lead ahead of Sayer and Mello for the final.
The X30 Mini final featured a compelling podium battle with Oliver Warner (GGM Motorsport) seizing victory in a stellar performance. Austin Newsted (BMR) showcased his mettle to secure second place, while Will Green (Jamie Green Racing) rounded out the trio with a commendable third. The dynamic interplay among these young talents added laid great layer of excitement to the spectacle as the first of the three finals of the event.
X30 Junior Thrills: Benjamin Mañach Claims Victory in Zuera Battle
The X30 Junior category unfolded in a mesmerizing spectacle. The Friday qualifying session witnessed intense competition, with Javier Broasca (MDC Racing), Aleix Piñera Rusiñol (Auto Club Rc2 Valles), and Riley Cranham (Fusion Motorsport) leading the charge.
Saturday's Qualifying Heats showcased the tactical brilliance of young talents, as Tadgh Buckley (Mick Barrett Racing), Riley Cranham (Fusion Motorsport), and Javier Broasca prevailed in the classification. Riley topped the classification after the Superheats and elevated the drama, setting the stage for a gripping showdown in the Finals.
Battling from 6th position, Benjamin Mañach (Birel Art Racing) emerged victorious after a thrilling contest with Thomas Pradier (VictoryLane Karting) and Harrison Mackie (Fusion Motorsport). Pradier, having started from 5th, put up a fierce fight, and secured a commendable second place while Harrison Mackie carved his way through the pack, clinching a podium finish after a comeback from 11th position.
X30 Senior's Dynamic Showdown: Luzio Reigns Supreme
The X30 Senior put on an awe-inspiring display of skill and determination. While the qualifying practice would see Pol Chaos Rivero (Auto Club Rc2 Valles) fastest, ahead of Cathal Clark (Fusion Motorsport) and Jan Gomez Blanco (Auto Club Rc2 Valles), it was the 13th overall qualifier, Marcus Luzio (Premium Karting), who would emerge as the undoubted star of the weekend.
Saturday's heats saw Luzio navigating the track with unparalleled precision, leaving competitors like Danny Carenini (Zanchi Motorsport) and Ruben Moya (Pantano Racing Team) trailing in his wake. Even the disruptive rain at the end of the day was not enough to stop the brilliance of Luzio who, overcoming his initial qualifying position, added an unexpected twist to the Zuera saga. The Superheats saw Moya break Luzio’s streak of wins but that wasn’t enough to take away the pole position.
From the outset, a fierce battle ensued between Ruben Moya, Clement Outran, and the indomitable Marcus Luzio. Lap after lap, they traded positions, creating an electrifying spectacle for spectators. In a dramatic climax, Luzio showcased his unwavering mastery, securing the win and completing a remarkable clean sweep of the weekend. Outran claimed a well-fought second, while Moya secured the final spot on the podium. A captivating end to the weekend, leaving the participants eagerly anticipating the next thrilling race of the IAME Euro Series.
Championship Outlook After Zuera's Intense Opener
As the checkered flag fell at Zuera, the IAME Euro Series embarked on a new thrilling journey. Marcus Luzio's spectacular dominance in X30 Senior, Benjamin Mañach’s triumph in X30 Junior, and Oliver Warner’s victory in X30 Mini have set the tone for an electrifying championship. The battle-tested competitors now eye Franciacorta, eager to continue their quest for glory. With drama, skill, and sheer adrenaline marking the opening race, the IAME Euro Series promises a season of unmatched karting excitement. The road to the championship, as well to the IWF24 unfolds, with each race adding new chapters to this gripping saga.
Provisional Classification:
X30 Mini
1- Austin Newstead (GBR) 26 Points
2- Oliver Warner (GBR) 25 Points
3- Will Green (GBR) 21 Points
4- Priam Bruno (BEL) 20 Points
5- Zdenek Babicek (CZE) 20 Points
X30 Junior
1- Benjamin Mañach (ESP) 30 Points
2- Thomas Pradier (FRA) 26 Points
3- Tadgh Buckley (IRL) 22 Points
4- Harrison Mackie (GBR) 16 Points
5- Riley Cranham (GBR) 15 Points
X30 Senior
1- Marcus Luzio (GBR) 35 Points
2- Ruben Moya (ESP) 24 Points
3- Clement Outran (FRA) 21 Points
4- Cian Geraghty (GBR) 19 Points
5- Fionn Maclaughlin (IRL) 13 Points
RGMMC Strengthens Motorsport Excellence Through Dynamic Partnerships
Embracing its commitment to excellence RGMMC fortifies its dynamic partnerships with STX Motorhomes and OMP, Bell Helmets, Zero Noise, and Racing Spirit. The resounding success and positive reception at the Winter Cup showcased a shared dedication to elevating the standards of motorsport. Moreover, the long-standing collaboration with Minerva's Virtual Academy reaffirms RGMMC's commitment to education. These partnerships underline RGMMC's unwavering dedication to delivering top-tier experiences within the racing community.
The curtain rises on the 2024 IAME Euro Series in Zuera, leaving an indelible mark with thrilling races, top-tier experience, and a continuing high attendance. As the series embarks on the journey through Franciacorta, Wackersdorf, and Genk, the stage is set for an electrifying season, promising more wheel-to-wheel action and fierce competition in the world of karting.