FIA Karting: Two European titles at stake in Sarno

While the young Drivers of the FIA Karting Academy Trophy will be competing in the second of their three Competitions, the FIA Karting European Championship – KZ / KZ2 will find its conclusion at the foot of the Mount Vesuvius. Whatever happens, the return to Italy will be accompanied by different conditions conducive to spectacular Races.

The longest circuit of the season with its 1547 meters, Sarno is also the one with the longest fast sector. However, technicality is not lacking in the other sectors of the Neapolitan track and it always generates exciting sporting clashes. High temperatures are to be expected and the risk of rain is never completely absent in the Campania plain, under the eye of the volcano.

All conditions will be met to produce a suspenseful conclusion to the FIA Karting European Championship – KZ / KZ2 which started in Germany at the beginning of May. The titles will be awarded according to the sum of the points from the two Competitions, without any margin of error. In addition, Sarno will undoubtedly mark the turning point of the FIA Karting Academy Trophy decided over three Competitions. Experience has shown that the hierarchy can change greatly on such a circuit that often requires specific provisions. Early maturity could be decisive for the 51 young talents from 47 nations on five continents, competing on equal terms at the wheel of the one-design Exprit / Vortex / Bridgestone karts. Note that Bridgestone will supply the tires for the three categories of the program.

KZ: In pursuit of Abbasse

With his initial success in Wackersdorf, The Frenchman Anthony Abbasse approaches the Italian weekend as the favourite. However, the KZ title is far from decided, especially as the Competition will be held on a circuit frequently used by the main teams. Close behind, the Italian Matteo Vigano will benefit from the support of prestigious teammates such as his countryman Marco Ardigo and the Finn Simo Puhakka, who are often very successful in Sarno. Alessandro Irlando has a great card to play and Jorrit Pex has better control over his new equipment. Finally, Bas Lammers has always enjoyed the circuit of Sarno where he has already had the opportunity to shine. 25 Drivers have registered for this Competition.

Provisional KZ classification before Sarno:

• Anthony Abbasse – 34 points
• Matteo Vigano – 28 points
• Alessandro Irlando – 23 points
• Jorrit Pex – 21 points
• Bas Lammers – 15 points

KZ2: Skaras the man to beat

The victory of the Swede Emil Skaras in Germany surprised a large proportion of his rivals. They are expected to react in Sarno, especially the three Italians who follow him in the provisional standings. Also surprising in Wackersdorf, Simone Cunati remains a formidable rival for the title, while the very fast Riccardo Longhi will try harder than ever to put his name in the European results. He is one of the biggest favourites, if luck stays with him. Giuseppe Palomba (ITA) proved that he could also fight for the win, while David Vidales Ajenjo surprised by his comfort in a category he has recently joined. The list of 79 entries includes many drivers capable of shining in Sarno. Without a great result on his home turf, Alexander Schmitz is a perfect example, as are Lorenzo Giannoni and Benjamin Tornqvist Persson.

Provisional KZ2 classification before Sarno:

• Emil Skaras – 34 points
• Simone Cunati – 27 points
• Riccardo Longhi – 16 points
• Giuseppe Palomba – 16 points
• David Vidales Ajenjo – 15 points
• Philip Hall – 15 points

Trophy Academy: Strong rating for De Haan

Strong in a variety of conditions, the Dutchman Robert De Haan impressed during the opening race of the 2019 FIA Karting Academy Trophy. His opponents must absolutely counter his domination to maintain their chances. Joshua Coertze and Magnus Germansen Daae are in the best position to start the fight. Paolo Ferrari is not lacking strong attributes, nor is Lucas Mendes or Lucas Bohdanowicz. With the support of OTK Kart Group for Exprit chassis and Vortex engines, Bridgestone for tires and OMP for apparel, the 51 Drivers entered will be able to express their talent freely and fairly in Sarno.

Provisional Academy Trophy ranking before Sarno:

• Robert De Haan – 35 points
• Joshua Coertze – 26 points
• Magnus Germansen Daae – 24 points
• Paolo Ferrari – 18 points
• Gael Julien – 16 points

Schedule

Follow the FIA Karting European Championship – KZ/KZ2/Academy Trophy at Sarno on The Racebox website with live timing, streaming and daily reports!

Text & Photo: FIA Karting / KSP

Editing: Guillaume Alvarez