Revving up the excitement under the warm Valencian sun, the 2024 IAME Winter Cup saw a spectacular start, while etching its name in history with the highest participation on record. Three fiercely contested categories – X30 Junior, X30 Mini, and X30 Senior – unfolded on the Spanish track, captivating participants and spectators with adrenaline-pumping action.
The stakes were higher than ever, with cash prizes amplifying the competition – €1000 for the winner, €500 for the second, and €250 for the third in each category. Additionally, the allure of the IAME Euro Series prizes added an extra layer of excitement, offering a full season entry for the winner, free entry to the first two races for the second-placed driver, and a complimentary entry to the first race for the third-placed driver. Notably, each category’s winner also secured a coveted ticket to the prestigious IAME Warrior Finals 2024, elevating the significance of triumph in the 2024 IAME Winter Cup.
X30 Mini Thrills
X30 Mini witnessed a showdown of emerging talents. Daniel Miron Lorente (D.M.L. MOTORSPORT), George House (Oliver Rowland Motorsport), and Priam Bruno (Spirit-Racing.CH) dominated Friday’s qualifying, while Priam Bruno jumped ahead of Oliver Warner, and George House in Saturday’s heats. After superheats the front row remained unchanged while Daniel Miron Lorente jumped back ahead of George House in the classification. Eventually Daniel Miron Lorente emerged victorious, with Priam Bruno and Ludwig Granquist (Falcon Racing Team) completing the podium.
X30 Junior Showdown
In the X30 Junior class, the competition was fierce from the outset. Qualifying showcased Ethan Lennon’s (Beyond Racing Team) speed, with Harrison Mackie (Fusion Motorsport) and Daniel Kelleher (Fusion Motorsport) close behind. Saturday’s heats were the battleground of Daniel Kelleher, Nikita Nikishov (Fusion Motorsport) and Benjamin Mañach Klisowski (BirelArt SRL). The superheats saw Kelleher maintain his lead, while Mañach Klisowski jumped to second and Zac Green (Jamie Green Racing) third. Benjamin Mañach Klisowski was the one to take the victory in the final, trailed by Sam Wolley (BMR) and Zac Green.
X30 Senior Intensity
The senior class was a special one, with another sold out category despite the entries being extended to 126. Out of the 4 qualifying practice sessions it was Thibaut Ramaekers (VDK Racing) who set the pace on Friday ahead of Fionn MacLaughlin (VDK Racing), Marius Barry-Berg and Malo Bolliet (VictoryLane Racing). Saturday’s heats showcased Fionn MacLaughlin, in front of Barry-Berg, and Marcus Luzio. MacLaughlin continued his dominance in the superheats, closely pursued by Luzio and Barry-Berg. In a nail-biting final that saw several front runners eliminated it was Adria Mustienes Gil (Kids to Win) who took the surprise victory, in front of Lewis Bird (Croc Promotion) and Cian Geraghty (MDL Motorsport).
OMP and STX join the RGMMC partners list
In a significant stride toward enhancing the on-track experience, RGMMC has unveiled two exciting partnerships. First, OMP has joined forces as the official clothing partner, introducing its Racing Spirit brand. This collaboration not only brings the renowned quality of OMP apparel but also introduces the cutting-edge ZeroNoize and Bell Helmets brands, promising a blend of style and safety for participants. On a parallel track, STX Motorhomes has also embraced a new partnership with RGMMC, showcasing its luxurious STX 3 pop-out motorhomes directly on the track. This collaboration signifies a commitment to elevating the overall ambiance and comfort options for participants, adding a touch of luxury to the racing community.
The 2024 IAME Winter Cup not only delivered thrilling races but also revealed a strengthened commitment from competitors, setting an electric tone for the upcoming IAME Euro Series. Valencia’s event served as a preview of the season ahead, promising enthusiasts a season rich in excitement, fierce competition, and unforgettable moments.
Photos/Report: RGMMC Media in collaboration with The RaceBox
