Navarra, Spain – An electrifying weekend of racing set the tone for the 2025 Ferrari Challenge UK Trofeo Pirelli series, as drivers and fans alike descended on the stunning Navarra Circuit for an unforgettable season opener. With Ferrari official driver Miguel Molina offering his expertise as Race Advisor, approximately 2,000 spectators were treated to thrilling on-track battles, dramatic twists, and a showcase of pure driving talent.
In a weekend of firsts, the fast and technical 2.444-mile Navarra Circuit made its debut on the calendar, while four unique winners emerged across the Trofeo Pirelli and Coppa Shell classes: Gilbert Yates (Charles Hurst), Paul Simmerson (Graypaul Birmingham), Mike Dewhirst (Dick Lovett Swindon), and newcomer Pranav Vangala (HR Owen), who claimed his maiden victory in fine style.
Saturday: New Circuit, Familiar Fighting Spirit
Qualifying 1: Blustery but dry conditions provided a perfect platform for fast laps, and it was reigning Trofeo Pirelli champion Gilbert Yates who immediately stamped his authority, securing pole with a commanding 1:45.058. In the Coppa Shell class, Paul Simmerson marked his return with an impressive 1:46.810 to lead the pack.
Race 1: The opening race delivered instant drama. Yates capitalised on his pole start, expertly building an early gap while fending off a spirited charge from Pranav Vangala. Meanwhile, a fierce duel brewed behind them between Oscar Ryndziewicz (Graypaul Glasgow) and young debutant Callum Leathem (Charles Hurst), offering fans a gripping battle for third.
A late-race safety car and the looming threat of rain ensured a tense finish, but Yates held firm to claim his first win of the 2025 season, with Vangala second and Ryndziewicz third.
In Coppa Shell, Simmerson faced a strong challenge from Peter Hunter (Stratstone Manchester), who briefly snatched the lead with a daring move into turn one. Simmerson, however, reclaimed the top spot and never looked back. As the race unfolded, Mike Dewhirst charged through the field, passing Hunter to claim second place. Simmerson secured a well-earned victory, with Dewhirst and Hunter rounding out the podium.
Sunday: Sunshine, Strategy, and Stunning Victories
Qualifying 2: Fairer weather greeted the drivers on Sunday, with Yates once again on top in Trofeo Pirelli qualifying thanks to a sharp 1:44.670 lap. In Coppa Shell, Dewhirst made a statement by claiming pole with a blistering 1:45.800, nearly half a second clear of his closest rival.
Race 2: The second race delivered no shortage of drama. Yates and Vangala fought side-by-side into turn one, with Yates initially holding firm. Further down the field, Fedor Samorukov (HR Owen) delivered a lightning start, surging up to fourth.
A collision between Joseph Dean (Stratstone Colchester) and Ryndziewicz caused yellow flags, but the racing soon resumed with renewed intensity. As the laps wound down, tyre degradation began to plague Yates, opening the door for Vangala. With just minutes remaining, the HR Owen driver seized his opportunity, slipping past Yates to capture a historic first victory in the Ferrari Challenge UK. Yates settled for second, while Leathem, completing an outstanding debut weekend, claimed a well-deserved third place.
In Coppa Shell, Simmerson initially seized the lead from Dewhirst with a bold move around the outside. However, a mistake under braking gifted Dewhirst back the advantage, and Simmerson’s subsequent off-track excursion dropped him to fourth. Dewhirst capitalised on the clear air, controlling the race masterfully to take his first win of the season. Hunter secured second after a dogged defensive drive, with Simmerson fighting back to complete the podium in third.
A Promising Start to an Exciting Season
With new talent rising, seasoned drivers refining their craft, and the Ferrari 296 Challenge cars proving their mettle, the 2025 Ferrari Challenge UK season promises to deliver high-octane excitement at every turn. Navarra Circuit may have been a new addition, but it has already carved out a memorable chapter in the championship’s history.
The next round beckons — and if Navarra is anything to go by, fans are in for a sensational season of racing.
