Round 3 - Germany - Oschersleben

Maserati went into Oschersleben in high hopes and the third round of the FIA GT duly delivered. The German circuit saw the MC12s take second and third on the podium, a result that might seem poor against the run of wins and one-twos over recent years (2008 apart). However, today’s outcome has to be considered positively given the ballast the two Modenese GTs had to carry over the 3,696 metre track.
Even though they eventually finished second, the 95kg loading down Bertolini/Bartels’ MC12 meant that a podium finish was unlikely at the start, despite the performance of the German reigning champions in free practice.

Müller/Ramos, third across the line, had 45kg on board and so any hopes of a win lay with them. This optimism seemed to have vanished at the very first curve when Müller became the meat in a Saleen and Corvette sandwich, slipping to twenty-second spot. Then came the comeback, as another sign of the MC12’s performance re-ignited expectations of a win.

The championship is now wide open. Bertolini/Bartels still lead on 26, three points up on Hezemans/Kumpen, eleven on Maassen and fourteen on team mates Müller/Ramos. The next race on the calendar, the 24 Hours of Spa, may be the decisive round even though the points will not be doubled this year.