Hockenheim
Impressive display in the finale of the ADAC GT Masters
Christian Engelhart lined up for the seventh and last weekend of racing this season in the “league of super sports cars” at the Hockenheimring and was able to make a big mark again by leading for some laps and crossing the line in second.
Rolf Ineichen and Christian Engelhart got off to a perfect start to the weekend in their Lamborghini Huracán by clocking the fastest time in the rain in the second free training session. The goal was clear: To repeat last year’s win at Hockenheim. Starting from 16th on the grid in the Saturday race meant that was no simple feat – and any hopes were soon dashed. In the tumult at the second bend, Christian’s teammate was soon attacked in the race and his Lamborghini Huracán GT3 was sandwiched. Although he carried on despite the damage, he had to retire after six laps.
Place on the rostrum in the finale
Their motivation was all the greater going into the second race. With the track drying at precisely the right time for Christian, he secured a very good third place on the grid. In the hectic start to the race, the experienced pilot from Bavaria kept out of the tussles at the head of the field, whereas the two leaders clashed with each other. Christian consequently took over first spot and then drove several fastest laps, enabling him to constantly stretch the lead. He ultimately handed over the green Lamborghini Huracán GT3 with the number 82 to his teammate with a lead of six seconds. Rolf then battled tirelessly for every second to defend the leading position. Shortly before the end, however, he was forced to let the later winner and runner-up in the ADAC GT Masters pass him and so he took the checkered flag in second.
Christian Engelhart: “When I went ahead on the first lap, I tried to extend the lead as much as possible and so piled on the pressure. Sometimes I was driving beyond the limit, but taking that risk also allowed me to build a good lead. Rolf also did a great job after the handover and we finished second. The Audi was a bit too fast and in the end was able to overtake our Lamborghini. But it was a fair fight. I’m extremely proud about the Sunday race. I can’t thank my team and sponsors enough for their fantastic support throughout the season. It’s wonderful to end the season on a high note.”