LP Racing got its 2023 Fanatec GT2 European Series off to a strong start in the first free practice session at Monza, with Mattia di Giusto and Stephane Ratel topping the timing screens in the #88 Audi.
Di Giusto began his GT2 debut in style, waiting until the final minutes of the first 60-minute session to punch in his fastest time of 1:57.416 and take the top spot by 0.761s. Reigning Pro-Am champion, Stienes Longin and new teammate Peter Guelinckx had led the order up until that point, posting a best time of 1:58.177 in the bright yellow #1 PK Carsport Audi.
Another 2022 champion, Am winner Henry Hassid and Anthony Beltoise completed the top three to make it a trio of Audis heading the order as the new driver pairing begin their attack on the Pro-Am title.
Leading the Am class contingent was Mantas Janavicious and Aurelijus Rusteika in the #5 Ebimotors Porsche, who ranked fourth overall ahead of the Mathey Racing Porsche of Christoph Breuer.
The new Mercedes-AMG GT2, which makes its international racing debut under the Fanatec by HRT banner and in the hands of Thomas Jackermaier and Jen Liebhauser this weekend, completed the Am top three and sixth overall.
The second free practice is scheduled to take place at 12:40, ahead of qualifying at 15:30.