In a spectacular demonstration of dominance, Ferrari made a powerful entry into the 2025 FIA World Endurance Championship season with a 1-2-3 sweep at the Qatar 1812Km. This impressive feat, achieved under the Lusail International Circuit floodlights, mirrored Porsche’s triumphant performance at the same event last year.
The Italian automaker’s victory was amplified by the stumbling performance of its fiercest competitors, BMW and Cadillac. The 10-hour night race, filled with pulsating action, witnessed a masterclass performance from Ferrari’s AF Corse team.
Shining bright under the Qatar night sky was the trio of Antonio Fuoco, Miguel Molina and Nicklas Nielsen who navigated their No. 50 car from a third-place start to an astonishing victory. Their victory was buttressed by a tactical tyre strategy, switching from medium tyres to a combination of Michelin hard and medium tyres as the night temperature dropped.
Molina, basking in the glow of their triumph, emphasized the importance of this encouraging start to the season. Nielsen, on the other hand, expressed his elation over the victory, saying, “Finally we got a win not at Le Mans — what a way to start the season!”
The triumphant trio faced a nerve-wracking encounter early in the race when their car spun out due to a collision with the No. 15 WRT BMW M Hybrid V8 driven by Dries Vanthoor. However, they managed to recover and regain control of the race.
Despite a momentary drop to second place in the ninth hour due to a slower pit stop, the No. 50 Ferrari managed to regain the lead. This was thanks to Fuoco’s tactical patience and a final round of pit stops where he managed to save valuable time while refuelling.
The No. 83 AF Corse Ferrari, though not victorious, held its own and secured a commendable second place. The team, consisting of Yifei Ye, team newcomer Hanson, and Kubica, managed to keep up the pace throughout the race despite their worn tyres.
Despite starting from pole position, Ferrari’s second factory car, the No. 51, was hit with two drive-through penalties that derailed its plans for victory. However, salvaging a podium finish was a testament to the team’s resilience and determination.
Meanwhile, reigning manufacturers’ champion Toyota Gazoo Racing had a disappointing run, finishing in fifth and sixth places. Their GR010 HYBRIDs lacked the speed to compete with the top contenders.
A dramatic incident involving the No. 12 Cadillac Hertz Team JOTA V-Series.R and the No. 20 BMW further shook up the race. The British team’s cars collided, causing significant damage and a trip to the pit lane for repairs. This mishap handed the lead back to Ferrari.
The rest of the pack also had their share of challenges. Porsche Penske Motorsport, Alpine, and Peugeot faced disappointing outings. Aston Martin THOR Team Valkyries, on its WEC debut, suffered technical issues leading to a disappointing finish.
However, in the LMGT3 class, TF Sport’s No. 33 Corvette Z06 GT3.R emerged victorious from the 13th position on the grid. Daniel Juncadella, Ben Keating and WEC LMGT3 rookie Jonny Edgar secured the victory after an intense final hour.
In conclusion, the opening race of the 2025 FIA World Endurance Championship season was filled with drama, excitement, and a triumphant display of dominance from Ferrari. The Italian automaker’s 1-2-3 sweep sets the stage for an exhilarating season ahead. Stay tuned for more updates.
