Highs and lows at FIA WEC season finale in Monza

Proton Competition showed impressive pace at the FIA WEC season finale in Monza on 8 November, delivering wheel-to-wheel battles, leading laps and a strong performance throughout the six-hour race. However, despite the team’s promising showing, a hard-earned podium finish ultimately remained out of reach.

“I think this was the race I enjoyed most this year,” said Ben Tuck. “I got behind the wheel in twelfth position and was in first place after my double stint, so I was really happy with that performance. The car was amazing, and I think we saw how much potential it has today.”
 
The British driver took over the #77 Ford Mustang LMGT3 from teammate Eric Powell after the first third of the race. Both drivers rose to the challenge of the tricky conditions, putting in convincing performances. However, time-consuming repairs to the front of the car proved costly, leaving final-stint driver Sebastian Priaulx to bring the Mustang home in twelfth place.
 
The sister car, shared by Stefano Gattuso, Giammarco Levorato and Logan Sargeant, also experienced its share of highs and lows. Following a spectacular start, local favourites Gattuso and Levorato held the lead in the LMGT3 class on several occasions.
 
Their battle for the lead around the halfway mark was particularly well received by the enthusiastic Monza crowd. “I had quite a lot of good fights with the competition and was able to make up a lot of places,” said Levorato. “Despite the significant potential in the car, we didn’t finish in the position we wanted. The car was very competitive but we drivers had some issues, including from my side. Towards the end of the race, we had to retire the car due to an issue with the front.”
 
The Monza race marked the end of Proton Competition’s 15th season in the FIA World Endurance Championship. Since making their debut at the championship’s inaugural race in 2012, Christian and Michael Ried’s team has competed in every single round of the series.

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Copyright: Proton Competition (Paola Depalmas)