PK Carsport sit in prime position, with the team’s two Audi R8 LMS GT2 crews currently lying first and second in the Fanatec GT2 European Series Pro-Am standings, heading into the third double header at Misano, Italy this weekend.
The #11 entry of Stienes Longin and Nicolas Saelens head the Pro-Am class battle by the slimmest of margins – a single point over the #81 sister car of Bert Longin and Peter Guelinckx.
The all-Belgian outfit has already recorded a combined seven podiums this term, including two race wins for series newcomers, Stienes Longin and Saelens. Although yet to take the top step of the podium this season, Bert Longin and Peter Guelinckx boast a podium perfect record so far.
Just 20 points – less than the equivalent of a single race win – cover the top four contenders. And with three different class winners so far this season, PK Carsport are under no illusions as to the close competition ahead.
Bert and Peter; You took pole position and the race two win at Misano last year, can we expect a repeat performance this weekend?
Bert Longin: “With our two Audis, we are currently in an ideal position in this European championship, but the last meeting in Austria reminded us that the competition does not stand idly by. The level of the championship seems to be climbing race after race. We are therefore faced with a dilemma: we obviously want to win victories, but we also have to think about the championship. And combining the two is not necessarily easy!”
Peter Guelinckx: “Obviously, I may be influenced by the good results of last year. Beyond that, I find that this circuit offers a very pleasant rhythm which suits me well. Going back to this year, Bert and I are in second place in the championship, but we haven't won a race yet. We want to change that in Italy, although I think I already know our most serious opponents!”
Stienes and Nicolas; You’ve had an impressive start to your first season with a win at each event so far. Can you notch up another at Misano?
Stienes Longin: “Misano is the last circuit of the season on which I have never driven, but that doesn't worry me too much. I watched onboard cameras and we will have enough free practice for me to feel confident. Our objective is clear: if we score big points in both races and retain the championship lead, I will be a happy man.”
Nicolas Saelens: "It will probably be a difficult weekend. I have already driven at Misano, but at the time we were going the other way! Since 2007, we drive clockwise, which means that the new version will be totally new for me. Compared to Peter and Bert, we clearly have less experience on this track. I'm lucky to be able to get used to new situations quite quickly, but Stienes and I will need free practice to master the circuit before qualifying.”
The third round of the Fanatec GT2 European Series takes place at Misano, Italy, 1-2 July.