How Did Mahaveer Raghunathan Make History at the Italian GT Championship?
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Synopsis
Mahaveer Raghunathan's impressive performance at the Italian GT Endurance race in Mugello not only earned him a podium finish but also solidified his place in history as the first Indian to achieve a runner-up position in the 2025 Italian GT PRO-AM Endurance Championship. Discover the details of his remarkable journey.
Key Takeaways
- Historic achievement: First Indian to secure a runner-up position in the Italian GT PRO-AM Endurance Championship.
- Team collaboration: Worked with AF CORSE teammates to maximize performance.
- Traffic management: Improved skills in handling slower cars during the race.
- Defensive driving: Demonstrated strong defensive tactics against competitors.
- Future ambitions: Committed to fighting for the title in upcoming rounds.
Mugello, Sep 16 (NationPress) Indian driver Mahaveer Raghunathan achieved a historic feat at the Italian GT Endurance race in Mugello, finishing in P3 overall and P2 in the PRO-AM category. This remarkable performance earned him the second position in the 2025 Italian GT PRO-AM Endurance Championship, marking him as the first and only Indian to reach this accomplishment.
Raghunathan raced car number 51 for AF CORSE, partnering with Lorenzo Ferrari and Riccardo Ponzio, driving a Ferrari 296 GT3. The trio garnered 12 points in the main race. The race commenced with the AF CORSE Ferrari 296 GT3 team starting from P2, thanks to an impressive qualifying lap by Raghunathan's teammate, who maintained the position firmly throughout the initial stint. During his own driving period, Raghunathan encountered intense competition as several lapped GT Cup cars emerged right after the pit window, which cost him valuable time, but he managed to navigate past them without incident. Despite the challenges posed by traffic, he executed overtaking maneuvers expertly and maintained his position through disciplined racing tactics.
During his second stint, Raghunathan exhibited mature defensive techniques, successfully holding off a direct competitor throughout the entire period while skillfully maneuvering around slower GT Cup vehicles—especially challenging on the narrow and intricate layout of Mugello.
In reflecting on his performance, Raghunathan acknowledged significant progress in traffic management and racing skills compared to earlier in the season, creating a positive outlook for the concluding rounds. “My primary takeaway is to apply everything I've learned from battling with other cars, enhancing my racing skills, and competing for the title in the final two Sprint championship rounds,” stated Mahaveer.
The focus now shifts to the concluding phases of the Italian GT Sprint championship, with Raghunathan eager to contend for the top position. “I am excited to return to the podium in two weeks at Imola, which will host the penultimate sprint round, and I am dedicated to leveraging all my experience in the title chase,” concluded Mahaveer Raghunathan.
Point of View
I am proud to highlight Mahaveer Raghunathan's remarkable achievement in the Italian GT Championship. His success not only showcases individual talent but also represents a significant milestone for Indian motorsport on the global stage. Mahaveer's dedication and perseverance resonate with aspiring athletes across the nation, and we look forward to his continued success in the upcoming races.
NationPress
20/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What position did Mahaveer Raghunathan secure at the Italian GT Endurance race?
Mahaveer Raghunathan finished in P3 overall and P2 in the PRO-AM class.
What car did Mahaveer drive during the race?
He drove a Ferrari 296 GT3 for AF CORSE.
What milestone did Mahaveer achieve in the 2025 Italian GT PRO-AM Endurance Championship?
He became the first and only Indian to secure the runner-up spot in the championship.
What challenges did Mahaveer face during the race?
He faced intense competition and traffic from lapped GT Cup cars, which complicated his race strategy.
What are Mahaveer's future plans in the championship?
He aims to compete for the title in the final rounds of the Sprint championship.
