Alexandre Leroy’s rookie campaign is one that encapsulates the spirit of the Fanatec GT2 European Series Powered by Pirelli. The GT racing convert is already a serious Am class title contender, having achieved a pole position and race win during a competitive debut thus far.
Originally from the off-road racing and rallying scene, the Belgian driver acquired the GT racing bug during a successful period of single-make Porsche competition in France with the TFT Racing squad.
Switching to Fanatec GT2 for the current season with the same outfit by his side, Leroy has displayed both speed and consistency as one of the leading Am drivers of the current campaign. He has already notched up six class podium finishes from eight races, plus a superb overall pole position on home soil at Spa-Francorchamps in the #24 Maserati GT2.
We catch up with him in the latest edition of Driver Focus…
Welcome to the Fanatec GT2 grid, Alexandre. How has the experience been for you so far?
“This has been a new experience for me racing in the GT2 category this year. Last year I drove in Porsche Cup France with the TFT Racing team, and we had a lot of fun working together. It's been during my second year of racing that I discovered modern GT cars and I love it. I have been more of a driver who originally came from rallying, then I drove historic cars on circuits with prototypes and group C.”
What do you think of the concept and format of GT2 races?
“The concept proposed by SRO of running GT2 cars in a championship with six great circuits and 12 races is fantastic! It allows drivers like me to battle and compare themselves with pros. I like this spirit of competition and the competitiveness it brings.”
What are your main goals for the season?
“My main objective this year is to continue to gain experience in my driving. I am coached by Driving Concept who do an excellent job and I see myself progressing. Apart from that, it will be to achieve a good final result and a good driver ranking for my first year in GT2.”
What are the biggest challenges you've had to adapt to?
“I didn't set myself a particular challenge, but I like to look at the positioning of my times by comparing them with other drivers who drive the same car as me. This gives me a lot of information on my progress and the work that remains to be accomplished.”
How does the GT2 car compare to cars you've raced before?
“The Maserati GT2 is an extraordinary car that I find easy to drive considering what I humbly know.
"Its central engine and excellent chassis make it possible to have a high-performance GT car underneath you. I am delighted to drive under the Maserati brand and the staff are very available and competent during events.”
What are the highlights of your motorsport career so far?
“My biggest memory in my early experiences in motorsport at the moment is from the Paris Dakar Raid, which I had the chance to do twice. My current dream and ambition is to be able to complete the 24 Hours of Le Mans with a team.”
Do you have a favourite track on the Fanatec GT2 calendar?
“My favourite circuit is Spa-Francorchamps because it meets all the criteria: fast, winding and very technical with slopes. It is especially legendary with the famous steep slope of Eau Rouge. Plus, driving in Belgium while being Belgian, and taking pole position this year - what more could you ask for?”
Leroy sits third in the Am class standings - just 18 points adrift - with two rounds remaining, the first of those taking place at Monza over the weekend of 20-22 September.