Kujala took the chequered flag in pole position after the first race and took second place in the subsequent race that was dominated by Swiss driver Patric Niederhauser for the Raton Racing team from flag to flag. Second place in the PRO Championship was secured by Daniel Zampieri and Loris Spinelli of the Antonelli Motorsport team while Richard Antinucci and Edoardo Piscopo took the third spot for the Beverly Hills/O’Gara Motorsport team in the PRO category.

In the PRO-AM class the World Champion title was obtained by Corey Lewis for Carolina/Change Racing from the USA, second place was taken by Edoardo Liberati and Yuan Bo  who were also the Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo Asia 2015 PR0-AM champions while Mikko Eskelinen and Kelvin Snoeks  from Leipert Motorsport came in third overall in their class.

There is also an AM class in the Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo series, and here the World Final title was taken by Ryan Ockey, the champion in the AM class of the North America series for the Vancouver/O’Gara Motorsport team.

Keep in mind the 2015 Super Trofeo series still had several Lamborghini Gallardo competing next to the new Huracan in a separate class, for the Gallardo class the title went to Jake Rattenbury  from the Carolinas/Change Racing team and Brandon Gdovic from Palm Beach/Mitchum Motorsport.

For the fourth year in a row the Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo Series will feature six rounds of two races each and will bring the Raging Bull to 17 of the most famous tracks in the world, either in Europe, Asia or North America … the calendar even includes two street races this time.

The Super Trofeo series has been racing in Europe for seven years already, first with the amazing Lamborghini Gallardo and last year with the brand new Huracan LP620-2 for the first time … the eighth year of the European series will once again continue alongside the Blancpain Endurance Series GT racing in Europe.

The 2016 Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo European series will start in Monza (Italy) on April 23 and 24, up next is the famous Silverstone (GBR) track during the weekend of May 14 and15 May. On June 24 and 25 the Huracan LP620-2 will compete on the Paul Ricard circuit in France while towards the end of July the famous 24hrs of Spa Francorchamps will be hosting the Belgian round of the Super Trofeo European series. September 17 and 18 will see the V10 doing battle on the Nürburgring in Germany.

The Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo Asia series is in her fifth year in 2016, the first race will be in Sepang (MAL) in April while in May you’ll be able to see the Huracan racing in Shanghai (CHI) and in June a new track in Suzuka will see her debut. For July two races are planned, on at the Thai circuit of Buriram while for the second time a street race will be held in Sepang. For the sixth round of the Asia series the Fuji circuit in Japan will host the final before the winner will come to the World Final in Valencia in November.

The North America series of the Blancpain Super Trofeo races will start in Laguna Seca from April 29 to May 1, Watkins Glenn will be next in June together with the debut at Road Atlanta, as the street race in Asia last year was a massive success the North America series will also feature a race on the street, this time in the Boston city center during the first weekend of September while the fifth round will be held in COTA, Texas on September 14 to 16.

The sixth and final round for both the European and the North America season will take place in November on the Valencia race track … after which the fourth edition of the World Final will follow on the same track with the winners of the three different series.

The post IN 2016 THE BLANCPAIN SUPER TROFEO RETURNS ON 17 TRACKS appeared first on LamboCars.

In Spa, the Italian Alberto Di Folco won his first race in the Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo Europa, giving his team Raton Racing their first win as well. The Race One result was, however, quite unexpected: the first race of the Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo Europe’s fourth round was ruled from flag to flag by the Finn Patrick Kujala (Bonaldi Motorsport), who also set the pole position. Kujala was however later penalized with a 10-second penalty for having overtaken the Safety Car at the re-start, and classified sixth.

The 2014 PRO-AM Champion Di Folco achieved P2 in qualifying and constantly chased the leader throughout the race, which saw the two safety cars called in by Race Control. The first incident was after nine minutes when Cyril Leimer crashed, while the second was in the last stages, which saw the retirement of Jacopo Faccioni.

The Italian/Japanese duo made up of Kei Cozzolino and Shinya Michimi (Vincenzo Sospiri Racing) managed P2 overall, edging out the Imperiale Racing pair Alberto Cerqui-Giacomo Barri in the very last lap. Also racing under the Bonaldi Motorsport banner, the German Florian Spengler seized fourth place.

Edoardo Liberati experienced an unlucky race. Starting from P2 on the grid in the other Raton Racing car, the Italian was soon forced to pit and his team-mate Patric Niederhauser ended up at the back of the pack.

The PRO-AM Class saw the second win of the season for Loris Spinelli and Marco Moscato, repeating their result in Silverstone. With a P5 overall they took the flag ahead of their Antonelli Motorsport team-mates Daniel Zampieri and Roman Mavlanov. However, the podium was determined only in the last lap when Simone Pellegrinelli (Imperiale Racing) assured his second place after overtaking the Leipert Motorsport duo of Mikko Eskelinen and Kelvin Snoeks, which led the Class in the race’s early stages.

Mikhail Spiridonov (Kinetic Racing Team) won the AM Class while the Bonaldi Motorsport pair David Perel and Ricardo Vera proved the best in the AM-Gallardo Class.

Driver Quotes

Alberto Di Folco #90 – Raton Racing (Overall and PRO Class winner): “This is more than a win for me as it’s my first overall win in the Super Trofeo and it arrives after quite an unlucky period, which stopped me grasping a podium finish. I would like to thank my team Raton Racing. I’m happy that they could cheer for their first win.”

Loris Spinelli #15 – Antonelli Motorsport (PRO-AM Class winner): “The weekend started in the best possible way for me and my team-mate Marco Moscato. P4 in qualifying and the PRO-AM Class win are also the result of the brilliant job by the team.”

Mikhail Spiridonov #99 – Kinetic Racing Team (AM Class winner): “I’m happy that my first win came in such a demanding race. The car was perfect and I’m confident I can win Race Two as well.”

David Perel #34 – Bonaldi Motorsport (AM Gallardo Class winner): “This was my first ever race in the Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo Europa. I could not ask for more.”

The post ALBERTO DI FOLCO FIRST WIN IN SPA FRANCORCHAMPS appeared first on LamboCars.

Patrick Kujala reconfirmed as the leader of the Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo Europe, sealing in sixth season’s victory. The Finn racing with Bonaldi Motorsport, won a rainy Race Two leading from pole position to finish under a pouring rain.

Thanks to this win Kujala keeps the lead of the PRO Class. The 19 y/o Di Folco was once more among the protagonists. The young Raton Racing driver, after having achieved his first win in Race One, proved all his skills in wet conditions overtaking in the early stages his team-mate Patric Niederhauser (along with Edoardo Liberati fourth overall) and taking the chequered flag just 1.352 second behind Kujala.

Thumb up for Daniel Zampieri and Roman Mavlanov, once more on podium with the Antonelli Motorsport car. A disappointing P7 though for the Team Lazarus pair made up by Sergio Campana and Fabrizio Crestani, who were second overall before the Spa round in the Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo Europe.

Simone Pellegrinelli (Imperiale Racing) won the PRO-AM Class, exactly one year after his last win in the Super Trofeo. He also managed to get in the topten edging the Italian/Japanese duo Kei Cozzolino/Shinya Michimi (Vincenzo Sospiri Racing).

P12 and AM Class win for the Artline Team Georgia driver Shota Abkhazava. The David Perel/Ricardo Vera Bonaldi Motorsport pair granted double in the AM – Gallardo Class winning Race Two as well.

The next round of the Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo Europe, fifth and penultimate of the season, is scheduled for the 19 and 20 September at the German Nürburgring Circuit.

Driver Quotes

Patrick Kujala #32 – Bonaldi Motorsport (Overall and PRO Class winner): “Thanks to this win I’ve increased my margin in the Championship. The fact that Campana-Crestani were back on the result sheet also helped. Rain was not a matter of concern, all went well and I could be satisfied for the outcome of the weekend”.

Simone Pellegrinelli #31 – Imperiale Racing (PRO-AM Class winner): “This is my first win of the season and the first one in the past year. My last win was here in Spa in 2014, and I’m definitely happy to be back on the top podium’s step”.

Shota Abkhazava #78 – Artline Team Georgia (AM Class winner): “Notwithstanding a minor contact at the start, and the rain which deeply affected the whole race, I’ve managed to keep the lead of the AM Class since the very first lap. This represents an important win as it was achieved in challenging conditions”.

David Perel #34 – Bonaldi Motorsport (AM – Gallardo Class winner): “The decision to join this event in Spa was taken only few days ago. I’m glad I won both races even if this represented my debut in the Super Trofeo”.

Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo – Europe
2015 Calendar

Monza (ITA) – 11/12 April
Silverstone (GBR) – 22/24 May
Paul Ricard (FRA) – 19/21 June
Spa (BEL) – 22/26 July
Nürburgring (DEU) – 18/20 September
Sebring (USA) – 19/20 November

World Final

Sebring (USA) – 21/22 November

The post PATRICK KUJALA TAKES FIRST PLACE IN THE RAIN AT SPA SUPER TROFEO appeared first on LamboCars.

As part of the extended partnership, the 2015 Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo North America event calendar was unveiled. The schedule features 10 rounds at five venues at some of the most iconic, exciting circuits in the United States. Races will take place in conjunction with IMSA’s top sports car series, the most prestigious in the U.S

Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo North America competitors also will race in the World Final, which features top drivers and teams from the three global Blancpain Super Trofeo Series – Europe, Asia and North America. The location of the 2015 World Final will be announced this November.

Each Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo North America event will feature two rounds. The season will open May 1-3 at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca in Monterey, California. The next round will take place June 26-28 at Watkins Glen International in Watkins Glen, New York, followed by Aug. 21-23 at Virginia International Raceway in Danville, Virginia.

The season will continue Sept. 17-19 with the series’ first visit to Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas, with the next event Oct. 1-3 during Petit Le Mans week at Road Atlanta in Braselton, Georgia.

The Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo North America championship debuted in 2013, with drivers competing in the Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Super Trofeo car, powered by a 570-horsepower V10 engine and featuring permanent four-wheel drive.

The series ran in conjunction with IMSA events starting with its second season in 2014 and enjoyed tremendous growth, with grid sizes increasing 50 percent through the season.

Motorsport will become an even more strategic, exciting asset for Lamborghini in 2015 with the debut of the incredible, all-new Huracán LP 620-2 Super Trofeo car.

The Huracán Super Trofeo marks a new benchmark for the race series. The car was built with a clear racing concept, with every feature engineered for sophisticated high performance and compliance with the strictest motorsport safety standards.

There is increased power in the Huracán Super Trofeo, which boasts a 620-horsepower V10 engine and rear-wheel drive.

The Huracán LP 620-2 Super Trofeo and Gallardo LP 570-4 Super Trofeo cars will share the grid in the 2015 Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo North America, with separate standings.

Competitors and their guests will continue to enjoy the complete Lamborghini experience at Blancpain Super Trofeo North America events in 2015, including exclusive amenities and world-class hospitality in the Lamborghini Village.

Lamborghini also plans to expand its racing program in North America by participating in GT Daytona (GTD) class sports car competition with the Huracán GT3 starting in 2016.

Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo North America – 2015 Calendar

1-3 May Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca, Monterey, California
26-28 June Watkins Glen International, Watkins Glen, New York
21-23 August Virginia International Raceway, Danville, Virginia
17-19 September Circuit of the Americas, Austin, Texas
1-3 October Road Atlanta, Braselton, Georgia

World Final
19-22 November

The post LAMBORGHINI AND BLANCPAIN EXTEND IMSA PARTNERSHIP TO 2018 appeared first on LamboCars.

In October 2012 the new evolution of the Super Trofeo car was unveiled, showing the new triangular intakes on the front bumper and at the rear, additional massive fender flares at the rear and a magnificent ‘hanging’ rear wing … while the chassis and engine remains the same as the 2012 edition the new 2013 receives a completely redesigned aerodynamic package that increases efficiency by 120% compared to the 2012 model.

In fact the ‘down force trim’ can be adjusted to 128kg in ‘low down force mode’ and up to 160kg in ‘high down force mode’ while the additional air intakes and outlets provide a 50% increase in cooling capacity, in fact Mr Reggiani made it perfectly clear it wasn’t the intention to cause a revolution for the 2013 Super Trofeo season … but more an evolution of an already perfect race car.

For the 2014 Blancpain Super Trofeo season the same car based on the Gallardo is still being used … the real revolution will arrive in 2015 when the Huracan base will be used for racing … until that time I’m sure the 2014 Specs Super Trofeo race car will be more than enough to keep the action alive in Europe, North America and Asia for the new Super Trofeo season that kicked-off in mid March on the Sebring track in Florida, USA.

But lets take a trip back into time, the start of the 2013 Super Trofeo season in Asia when teams acquired the 2012 specs model and had to convert it into the new and improved 2013 evolution at the Shanghai circuit … in a matter of days in fact.

We take a look at Team FXPrimus Aylezo while they prepare their car for the 2013 Lamborghini Super Trofeo Asia Series, with the first race well behind the Bamboo Curtains of Shanghai International Circuit … their car arrived at the track after being ‘in storage’ for a while, so a complete check and overhaul was required before it could compete in the race that weekend.

First point of action would be to remove all the decals and sponsors from last year’s team, and then the big transformation was started … the front bumper, front hood, engine cover, rear wing, rear bumper, rear diffuser and even the ‘undertray’ had to be removed so the new for 2013 units could be installed instead … the 2013 aerodynamic kit was delivered with a bit of a delay in fact … so in the first race of the 2013 Super Trofeo Asia Series some of the cars were still wearing their 2012 dress as some teams ran out of time.

Next step was to create the seat for the pilot … these seats are ‘tailor made’ to fit each specific driver by mixing two compounds together that will harden out into a foam shape that allows different drivers to pilot the car during the race … just by leaving the basic seat in place and just replacing the foam during the required pit stop.

Installing the new aerodynamic kit on the second day wasn’t as easy as you might imagine, a lot of parts wouldn’t just bolt onto the 2012 chassis as several air ducts required removing parts of the remaining bodywork … after some careful sawing, grinding it became obvious the numerous screws and rivets could only be mounted in a very specific way … time to consult the installation manual.

In the end it would take a little more than one day to install the entire 2013 aerodynamic kit onto the Gallardo, just in time for the practice sessions on day 3 so the final adjustments on the rear wing and canards could be performed to have the exact amount of down force required during the race … naturally by now all the new sponsor decals went onto the Racing Bull too.

On day four of the ‘transformation’ this 2013 specs Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo race car number 69 went into the qualifying rounds to set a fourth and seventh time for Round 1 and Round 2 respectively … it would reach 16th place overall after the Shanghai race. Results for the #69 car would be 2nd place in Sepang, 7th in Inje, 4th in Fiji, 4th when the Super Trofeo returned to Shanghai for Round 5 and 9th in Macau.

So in the end it would take about three days to ‘evolve’ a 2012 specs Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo race car into the much improved 2013 FL2 edition … the basics remained the same, but the special aerodynamic package, increased down force and cooling performance together with a 25kg weight loss did turn this ‘new’ race car into a totally different driving machine.

Photos and information courtesy of ZEROTOHUNDRED.COM

The post BLANCPAIN GALLARDO SUPER TROFEO GOES FROM 2012 TO 2013 SPECS appeared first on LamboCars.

A total of 7 teams with each two cars on the grid came to the oldest road racing circuit in America to compete against each other being closely followed by more than 100,000 visitors … the fastest lap time during the free practice sessions was set by PRO-AM champion Andrew Palmer in car number 14, in the actual qualifying stint Andrew took pole position with a 2:05.726 time, Kevin Conway took second spot and Al Carter would start the first race in third position.

During an action packed Round 1 a fierce battle went on until the last lap when Al Carter mode a bold move an managed to overtake Kevin Conway to take the first win of the season in car number 80, the PRO class standing were Al Carter, Kevin Conway and John Farano taking third position on the stage. For the Amateur title David Ockey took first spot, Bryn Owen and Tom O’Gara took second and third respectively … time to focus on Round 2 for all the drivers.

In Round 2 Andrew Palmer had to start in fourth position, but it didn’t take him long to reach the pole position … feeling the pressure from Al Carter and Kevin Conway just behind him … each lap Andrew Palmer managed to increase the gap between him and Al Carter by half a second until the mandatory pit stops took place.

Palmer managed to increase his lead to more than 60 seconds, with Conway taking second place before Carter in the third spot … unfortunately both Carter and Conway had to perform a drive through penalty so the podium was still open for change … even more so when the safety car came onto the track and caused most drivers to catch up to each other.

The chequered flag came down with Kevin Conway in first place, John Farano took second and Kevin O’Connell with James Contreras too the third spot … but the Amateur class is where the big surprise came from, first spot went to David Ockey, second was secured by Bryn Owen … but here comes the really impressive feat: Brett David took third place in his very first competition race … Sebring was in fact Brett’s racing debut … keeping in mind Brett David owns Lamborghini Miami which he inherited when his father passed away … which makes Brett dedicating his podium place to his father even more impressive … he’s already being called the Boy Wonder of the 2014 Super Trofeo North America series … next up is Laguna Seca in Monterey on May 2-4.

The complete calendar for the Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo 2014 series:

EUROPE

• 12-13 April Monza (IT)
• 23-25 May Silverstone (UK)
• 28-29 June Paul Ricard (FR)
• 23-27 July Spa Francorchamps (B)
• 19-21 September Nürburgring (DE)

ASIA

• 11 May Sepang (MAL)
• 8 June Sentul (INA)
• 13 July Fuji (JAP)
• 24 August Korea
• 10 October Shanghai (CHI)
• 20-21 November Sepang (MAL)

NORTH AMERICA

• 13-14 March Sebring International Raceway
• 2-4 May Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca
• 27-29 June Watkins Glen International
• 11-13 July Canadian Tire Motorsport Park
• 22-24 August Virginia International Raceway
• 1-3 October Road Atlanta (Petit Le Mans)

WORLD FINAL

• 22-23 November Sepang (MAL)

The post LAMBORGHINI BLANCPAIN SUPER TROFEO 2014 SEASON KICKS-OFF appeared first on LamboCars.

As usual the Blancpain Super Trofeo racers would be competing over two races this weekend, during qualifying on Friday Andrea Amici managed to reach the second spot on the starting grid, the nr 3 Gallardo Super Trofeo race car with Adrian Zaugg and Federico De Nora behind the wheel took pole position on the grid for the first race on Saturday.

The first race at the Nürnburgring was won by Andrea Amici in the PRO-AM series, in the Amateur series Joy befell Alberto Viberti took first place … it was his inaugural race at the famous German race track by the way, making this a very impressive feat.

So the final battle for the 2013 Blancpain Super Trofeo Championship title would take place during the second race on Sunday, the starting grid had some serious names lined up next to each other but it would be Adrian Zaugg to take the lead after the first turn … the driver from South Africa was located on the second row but managed to to take advantage of a four car pile-up into turn one.

Andrea Amici was holding on to his second place in this race, which would consolidate his position in the championship … third place would remain a serious battle between Alberto Viberti, Mirko Zanardini and Matteo Zucchi … Cédric Leimer managed to take seventh place at the start of the race, he did manage to go up to fifth before the obligatory pitstop.

Unfortunately the pitstop would seriously mess up the standings … Zaugg came in with a 17 second lead when Federico De Nora took the wheel … but Amici managed to close the gap and took the lead of the race for the Autocarrozzeria Imperiale team. The biggest turn of bad luck hit Leimer on lap 13 … he was given a drive-through penalty for a pitstop that was 0.2 seconds too short … he lost two more places in the race and passed the checkered flag in eight position overall … his hopes for a third championship title shattered.

At the end of the second race in this final weekend for the 2013 Blancpain Super Trofeo championship Andrea Amici took the top spot on the podium, 18 year old Alberto Viberti took second place while Mirko Zanardini managed a third position. With Amici winning this race he took Autocarrozzeria Imperiale SRL to the top of the PRO-AM Championship, while Autovitesse Garage R. Affolter claimed the Teams’ Amateur title.

So we now know already one name that will be competing in the Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo World Final race at Vallelunga on November 23-24. 2013 where we will see Andrea Amici, the European Super Trofeo champion do battle with the champion from the Super Trofeo Asia and the Super Trofeo North America series … I’m sure that will be very interesting race to crown the Blancpain Super Trofeo WORLD champion.

The post ANDREA AMICI IS THE EUROPEAN BLANCPAIN SUPER TROFEO CHAMPION appeared first on LamboCars.

For the 2013 season a new aerodynamic design was developed for the Super Trofeo series using the Nuova LP560-4 triangular style as a basis and the result was truly mindboggling showing a very aggressive styling at the front with Sesto Elemento derived air vents in front of the windshield while the ‘hanging’ rear wing took the idea from the Aventador J.

At the rear fenders wide fins were mounted and a massive lower diffuser with ‘cutting edge’ vertical fins and four massive exhaust pipes emitting a thundering sound … the 2013 specs Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo car oozes ‘racing’ from every angle, and for the first time in history the series went to the United States.

The North America Lamborghini Blancpain series would run over six races after which the overall champion would go head to head with counterparts from the European and Asian series during one final championship race back in Italy … however today the number of races has been cut to five in the United States.

The photos with this article were taken at Mid-Ohio during the Grand-Am event of June 15. 2013 while these two Super Trofeo race cars were performing demo runs to show spectators what to expect in the first championship race of the season at Lime Rock Park on July 5-6. 2013 where these impressive Super Trofeo cars will run as a supporting race to the ALMS.

After that first race in early July there will be four remaining opportunities for drivers to reach the title so they can travel to Italy to battle it out in the ultimate single-make series … so make sure to check these dates in your agenda:

Saturday, August 17th, 2013 – Sunday, August 18th, 2013
Super Trofeo North America 2013 Round Two
Kansas Speedway – GRAND-AM

Saturday, September 07th, 2013 – Sunday, September 08th, 2013
Super Trofeo North America 2013 Round Three
Calabogie, CN – IMSA

Saturday, October 05th, 2013 – Sunday, October 06th, 2013
Super Trofeo North America 2013 Round Four
Virginia International Raceway – American Le Mans

Friday, October 18th, 2013 – Saturday, October 19th, 2013
Super Trofeo North America 2013 Round Five
Fontana – Indy Car

The post First Race Of Super Trofeo Usa Series Set For July At Lime Rock appeared first on LamboCars.

The massive rear wing looks like a derivative of the one used on the Aventador J showing a similar ‘hanging’ style, albeit a bit more aggressive for race purpose … which is also evident in the wide rear diffuser … the 2013 Super Trofeo specs race car really looks the part.

Naturally this isn’t a street legal Lamborghini, this is a race specs car with only one goal in life … being driven hard around the most famous circuits in the world … the Super Trofeo Series started life in Europe, but in 2012 the Asia Series started and this year the Super Trofeo will come to the United States … at the conclusion of the 2013 season there will be one last race that gathers the champions from all three series on the same track … that promisis to show some serious battles …

But why should others have all the fun … imaging actually owning a genuine 2013 specs Lamborghini Gallardo Blancpain Super Trofeo race car.

At this moment Lamborghini Houston has a plain body 2013 Super Trofeo available for sale, priced at $292,000 (without taxes) it isn’t even that expensive … finished in Bianco Monocerus (white) it naturally features only one seat inside and a full race specs roll over cage that is still protected by the blue plastic wrapping, just like it left the factory in fact.

The 5.2 liter V10 engine has a power output of 570hp like the Gallardo LP570-4 Superleggera it has been ‘borrowed’ from, naturally coupled to the well-known eGear transmission this specific Super Trofeo race car has less than 50 Miles on the odometer.

Imagine installing the bodykit onto a street legal Lamborghini Gallardo … that would effectively create a one of a kind 2013 Super Trofeo Stradale … or you could just enjoy the car in her race dress during track days or on your private grounds, much like a Sesto Elemento but at a fraction of the price.

The post WHY NOT BUY A 2013 SUPER TROFEO RACE CAR appeared first on LamboCars.

No less than 22 cars would battle for a pole position during the qualifying sessions later one, however on Friday the weather in Zolder didn’t play along too well, Peter Kox told journalists “It was not worth risking too much for us when the rain came this afternoon. The forecast is good for the rest of the weekend so it made sense to be cautious and save the car. Prior to that it was all very constructive to us. We have done two races immediately before this which has been good for the team to bond back together after a long winter. We made some useful mechanical changes to the car before the rain came so all in all it was a constructive day for us.”

On Saturday the number 24 entry, being the white Lamborghini Gallardo GT3 FL2 (FL2 stands for Face Lift 2 by the way) driven by Peter Kox and Stefan Rosina was able to top the Superpole times during the qualifying sessions in the morning so they would be starting in pole position for the qualifying race in the afternoon. Peter Kox was able to put down a fastest lap in an impressive 1m29.398s on the Zolder circuit, which is celebrating their 50th Anniversary this year … as is Automobili Lamborghini SpA … so this is a perfect performance for the Gallardo GT3 FL2, a race car which has been developed between Reiter Engineering and Lamborghini Squadra Corse.

Back in the pits Peter Kox commented “It was a good job by all the team, in qualifying. We are in great shape and Stefan did a nice job with his lap in Q2. My Superpole laps were smooth and we have found a good mechanical balance and a lot of work over the last few weeks. I think it will be busy in the race this afternoon but for sure we are starting in the best place to form a strong result.”

Next to the Lamborghini Gallardo GT3 FL2 will be a beautiful the McLaren MP4-12C driven by 9-times World Rally champion Sebastien Loeb and Alvaro Parente who managed to follow the Raging Bull only 0.3 seconds behind.

Despite starting in pole position, the Gallardo GT3 FL2 could keep up the pace and lost the victory in the qualifying race to an Audi R8 LMS Ultra driven by Stephane Ortelli and Laurens Vanthoor, still a second place being only 10 seconds behind in this important stint was nothing to be embarased about as Stefan Rosina mentioned “This is the first time for me here in Zolder, so I am really happy with the result so far. I didn´t expect the Audis to be so close to me after the start. My expectation was to move ahead and have some clear laps before they get faster and catch me. At the end of my stint I had to calm down a bit as my rear tyres were losing grip. But tomorrow we will start from the front row and obviously we will fight again for the lead. In Qualifying we had shown that we are fast and in the race everything can happen.”

Sunday afternoon was the moment things got really important in Zolder, the Audi R8 LMS Ultra started in pole position with the Gallardo GT3 FL2 next to it … in the first minute Peter Kox managed to take the lead in the race in the first corner of the 60-minute race. Kox managed to take a five second lead over the competition when he made the mandatory pit stop handing over the wheel to Stefan Rosina.

Thanks to the perfect teamwork of the Lamborghini Blancpain Reiter pitcrew Rosina managed resume the race … in the lead. During the hour from start to finish the Zolder race turned very nerve wrecking … the five second lead of the Lamborghini was the only thing keeping Laurens Vanthoor behind the wheel of the Audi R8 LMS Ultra from victory after Kox managed to pass his teammate right at the start of the race.

In fact Vanthoor managed to catch up with the Raging Bull after fifty minutes … with only 10 minutes remaining a fierce battle started between Vanthoor, a local hero, and Rosina … who wasn’t going to make any mistakes steering the mighty V10 Bull over the Zolder track. The battle was only resolved at the final corner of the race as the Lamborghini powered out of the Jacky Ickx chicane took the chequered flag by less than half a second … leaving two Audi R8 behind …

After the race Stefan Rosina mentioned “Yesterday, I could not stand the pressure from Laurens (Vanthoor) because he really drove well. Today, when I saw the good job that Peter did, I knew it was going to be a bit easier. Obviously, when you have such a fast car flashing (lights) a lot behind you it is hard, but I tried not to look at the mirrors so much. It was a great drive from Laurens and I was happy to keep him behind today.”

There was also a second Lamborghini Gallardo GT3 FL2 competing in Zolder, the GRT Grasser Racing Team car number 25 driven by H. Proczyk and D. Baumann secured a 10th position in the qualifying race after 39 laps and a total race time of 1:01:48.326 … the winning Gallardo also did 39 laps but managed to finish after 1:00:57.072 … only about 50 seconds ahead of the second Raging Bull.

Quotes source : FIA GT Series

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Stephan Winkelmann, CEO and Director of Automobili Lamborghini SpA proudly unveiled the very impressive looking Veneno super car … an over the top evolution of the Aventador LP700-4 turning the already very potent street car into a true race car … while remaining street legal the Veneno shows a styling that is as close to an endurance race car as possible, by uprating the engine to 750hp the performance took a boost too, making this the fastest Lamborghini ever made.

Only slight problem … the Veneno is priced at 3 million Euro … without taxes … and to make things even worse only three will be built, and by the time we managed to see the car in Geneva all three were already sold … unseen!

Two of the Lamborghini Veneno units were picked up by residents of the United States, Antoine Dominic and Kris Singh managed to secure two of the car while the third one was bought by someone from the Middle East who asked to remain anonymous … but apparently is the same person that also bought the Aventador J in 2012 … and owns a Reventon Roadster too, a real Lamborghini enthusiast I would say.

With only three cars in the entire world … well that would be four in fact as this grey metallic Lamborghini Veneno remains property of the factory, it is not for sale, chances of seeing one in real life, and I mean outside of a closed stand at some major car show, are slim to non existant I would say … until you visit the Lamborghini VIP Village at the Super Trofeo race paddock, like last weekend (April 13-14) in Monza where everybody could admire the Veneno in plain daylight.

Sure it was fenced to keep the more eager members of the public away, but still it was the first time the general public was able to admire the rare Lamborghini Veneno out in the open air, I’m sure the sunlight resulted in some really amazing reflections on that grey metallic bodywork with all those air intakes, outlets, wings and clear carbon fiber … the Veneno will never cease to impress.

The video below posted by A8C100 shows the Veneno on display in Monza during the weekend of April 13th-14th:

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And that wasn’t even the end of the announcement … in 2012 this fastest single make series in the world will head to Asia too, expanding from their Europe tracks taking the Blancpain make to the Asian market too. Note that Blancpain has been the title sponsor since the first race in 2009 and continues their commitment to the Super Trofeo race cars for at least another two years … perfect timing to be honest, as this announcement came only hours after the unveiling of the Super Trofeo Stradale, a street legal, limited edition taking the Gallardo Superleggera and adding some amazing looking parts from the Super Trofeo race car.

Ever since the Super Trofeo made it onto the European tracks, the number of gentleman drivers and VIP has continued to grow beyond expectations, the relationship with Blancpain has proven a valuable asset and both participants and spectators in Asia are looking forward to the first race in 2012.

Marc Hayek, CEO of Blancpain, commented, “The Super Trofeo provides a perfect relationship between our two luxury, innovative and international brands. Asia is an extremely important region for Blancpain, as it is for Lamborghini, and we look forward to developing our activities on this much wider stage.”

In 2012 the European Super Trofeo series will keep the 2011 regulations and intends to include some of the more important F1 circuits in various countries, for the Asian series some small modifications will be made to comply with the local market. A first test will be held in Sepang, after that a total of five races will be held on major tracks in China, Malaysia, Japan and Taiwan.

This confirms that the Gallardo Super Trofeo race car will stay with us until 2013, if this also means the Gallardo road car will stay in production for another two years isn’t confirmed … nor denied, but it could unwillingly deny we’ll be seeing a new V10 production model in Geneva next year but will push the introduction of the Gallardo Successor to 2013. Even if a new model is introduced in March 2013 any deliveries will be happening after the summer months … when the Super Trofeo series is concluded.

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Three years later Automobili Lamborghini SpA is again putting forward this amazing car, naturally this time based on the very impressive Gallardo LP560-4 model.

The series will debut in May 2009, and feature Lamborghini’s Super Trofeo: a lightweight version of the Gallardo LP 560-4 super sports car launched earlier this year. The Super Trofeo will come with a reworked chassis, significantly reduced weight of only 1300 kg, and power output of 419 kW (570 hp) from its V10, ‘Iniezione Diretta Stratificata’ engine. Lamborghini has a clear objective to ensure the Super Trofeo is the fastest one-make series in the world.

The race car will feature Lamborghini’s permanent four-wheel drive, making the Super Trofeo the only one-make, all-wheel drive motorsport series. Lamborghini will build cars for a 30-strong grid, available to individual professional and ‘gentleman’ drivers, as well as Lamborghini dealer teams. One factory car, reserved for celebrity ‘guest drivers’, will be included in the line-up at each round.

“We’re delighted to announce The Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo,” said Automobili Lamborghini President and CEO Stephan Winkelmann. “Both on-track and off, our championship will reflect the Lamborghini brand, with extreme, high performance racing and stylish and luxurious trackside facilities. This gives our Lamborghini clients, as well as professional and gentleman racing drivers looking for a new challenge, the opportunity to experience Lamborghini in the ultimate driving environment.”

The first competition of the 2009 provisional calendar will run on 3 May at Silverstone Circuit in the UK, followed by Adria in Italy on 17 May; Nuremburg’s Norisring in Germany on 5 July; Spa in Belgium on 2 August; Barcelona?s Circuit de Catalunya in Spain on 20 September; and culminating on 4 October in Monza, Italy. At Monza in ‘the world’s fastest one-make series’.

With the Swiss watchmaker as title sponsor, The Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo will run over European race weekends alongside other prestigious series such as the FIA GT Championship, DTM and FIA WTCC (World Touring Car Championship). Either one or two drivers can register for each three-day race weekend, comprising of free practice and qualifying sessions, and three 40-minute races during Saturday and Sunday. The results of the three races are added together: no success ballast is added to winning cars, and the cars cannot be modified during the season.

The Super Trofeo car and parts package is offered at 200,000 euro plus tax and entry fee, via Lamborghini dealerships, with support and parts trackside. The prestigious ‘Lamborghini Village’ will provide a luxurious paddock package in true Lamborghini style, for drivers, sponsors and guests.

The Super Trofeo car

The Super Trofeo race car is based on the Gallardo LP 560-4, powered by the new 5.2 litre V10 direct injection ‘Iniezione Diretta Stratificata’, engine, generating an increased output of 419 kW (570 hp). Its power flows through the e.gear six-speed robotized gear box to the permanent all-wheel drive with viscous traction.

The Super Trofeo is a top-class race car in every detail. Its chassis, featuring double wishbone suspension all round, has been reworked specifically for the purpose. The slick tyres are supplied by Pirelli and a specialist racing brake system provides brutal stopping power. The race car weighs in at only 1,300 kg dry, despite its additional safety cage. Additional body components such as the large, fixed rear wing are made from carbon-fibre composite. The cockpit includes ultra-light racing seat, racing steering wheel and specialized instruments.

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With competition close last year, professional and ‘gentlemen’ drivers will once again battle for position behind-the-wheel of Super Trofeo race cars, lightweight versions of the Gallardo LP 560-4.

Teams already confirmed for the coming season include Reiter Engineering, which secured second place in the 2009 Teams’ Championship, while new Swiss outfit Black Bull Racing will make its Super Trofeo debut in Hockenheim. 2009 Pro Am Drivers’ Champion Claudio Rossetto will also compete, having secured seven race victories for team Petri Corse last year.

“I had a fantastic 2009 season,” said Rossetto. “The competition was tough but we persevered and managed to fend off our closest rivals to take the Pro-Am Driver, Pro Driver and Team titles. Racing in a Lamborghini is a fantastic experience, and having had such an amazing time last year, we will come back even more confident and motivated for 2010.”

“The second Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo season is highly anticipated,” said Lamborghini’s Director of Brand and Design, Manfred Fitzgerald. “We’re excited to see new teams join the Super Trofeo family for 2010, while competitors from last season will return to defend their honours. The on-track battles were extremely close in 2009, and we’re set for another thrilling season ahead.”

Marc A. Hayek, President and CEO of Blancpain, the series’ title sponsor, commented: “This second season looks eventful and I’m really looking forward to it, starting with the first races in Hockenheim, where the circuit is extremely technical and very fast. I am confident about the results, which we’ll be trying to improve still further this year.”

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The Super Trofeo race car is based on the very successful Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4, powered by a V10 engine, this car is both extremely fast and still relatively easy to drive … the last race being won by a very young pilot (Klingmann) which is very exciting to view.

At Spa the nr 24 Super Trofeo will be driven by Marc A. Hayek, President and CEO of Blancpain together with Peter Kox, a very well known pilot with an impressive win at the 24h of Le Mans.

Peter Kox will be busy during the next weekend, as well as driving in the Super Trofeo sessions he will also compete in the actual Total 24 hours de Spa behind the steering wheel of a Ferrari.

Other competitors are former Formula One test-driver, Marco Apicella, but also the 2004 Le Mans Endurance Series Champion, Alexander Frei. Do note that Lamborghini Racing Eastern Europe will enter no less than two Super Trofeo race cars driven by Jarek Janiš, Petr Charouz, Niek Hommersoen and Louis Machiels.

According to Lamborghini’s Director of Brand and Design, Manfred Fitzgerald, the Super Trofeo sessions at Spa are very important for the series, this is one of the most famous circuits in the world, both lengthy and high speed it will provide an excellent track for the Super Trofeo cars to show what they are made of.

It will promise to be an exciting weekend, both for the drivers and the enthusiasts at the stands.

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The Super Trofeo is the only one-make series in the motorsport world to feature cars with all-wheel drive. It is Lamborghini’s clear objective to ensure that it will be the fastest single-brand series in the world – partly due to the technical superiority of the all-wheel drive principle. From May, the Super Trofeo will make guest appearances at six race events – at Silverstone (UK), on the Adria International Raceway (Italy), on the Norisring (Germany), in Spa (Belgium), in Barcelona (Spain) and in Monza (Italy).

Lamborghini is building 30 cars for the Super Trofeo, which they are making available to individual enthusiasts, as well as to Lamborghini dealer teams. The factory will enter one car itself, and plans to commission well-known guest drivers to take the wheel. And on the edge of the racing action, the Super Trofeo Village hospitality venue will be available.

The Super Trofeo race car is based on the Gallardo LP 560-4, powered by the new 5.2 litre V10 with direct fuel injection (IDS), generating an increased output of 419 kW (570 hp). Its power flows through the e.gear six-speed robotized gear box to the permanent all-wheel drive with viscous traction – the kind of power transmission perfectly suited to motorsport.

The Super Trofeo is a top-class race car in every detail. Its chassis, featuring double wishbone suspension all round, has been reworked specifically for the purpose. The competition tyres are supplied by Pirelli and a specialist racing brake system provides brutal stopping power with racing ABS. Additional body components such as the large, fixed rear wing are made from carbon-fibre composite. The cockpit hosts an ultra-light race seat, a racing steering wheel and additional specialized racing instruments.

The Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo series – Racing fascination from Lamborghini

The Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo will take to the track in May 2009 and is the only one-make series in the world to feature all-wheel drive cars. It is set to be the fastest single-brand race series anywhere in the world – that is Lamborghini?s clearly stated objective.

This November sees Lamborghini begin work in Sant’Agata Bolognese on the construction of the 30 race cars that will constitute the starting grid. In spring and summer 2009, the Super Trofeo will run 18 races on well-known European circuits, starting on 3 May in Silverstone (UK), then on 17 May on the Adria International Raceway (Italy), 5 July on the Norisring in Nuremberg (Germany), 2 August in Spa (Belgium), 20 September in Barcelona (Spain) and on 4 October in Monza (Italy).*Dates provisional

For all six race weekends, the new Lamborghini single-brand trophy will find itself in sterling company – in Nuremberg and Barcelona, it will enjoy the track with the Deutsche Tourenwagen-Meisterschaft (DTM), while the Monza race is in co-operation with the FIA World Touring Car Championship (WTCC). In Silverstone, Adria and Spa, the Super Trofeo will complement the FIA GT sports car championship.

The rules are straightforward: either one or two drivers per car can register for the series. On Friday, there are two 30-minute sessions: free practice followed by qualifying. The first race takes place on Saturday, with two further races during the race weekend. Each race lasts approximately 40 minutes and the results are added together. No additional weight penalty will be imposed on the most successful vehicles. The cars may not be modified during the season – all relevant components – engine, transmission and chassis – are marked accordingly.

The title sponsor of the Super Trofeo is exclusive Swiss watch-maker Blancpain.

The price tag – 200,000 Euro per car

Lamborghini is offering the competition vehicles and replacement parts via its dealerships, with each car costing 200,000 euros plus tax. Both professional and ‘gentleman’ drivers with an International Competition Licence (A, B or C) are free to enter the Super Trofeo, as are teams from Lamborghini dealerships. The factory will also enter its own car, and is lining up celebrity drivers for guest appearances at the wheel. During the race weekends, Lamborghini provides support to all drivers with an outstanding technology and parts service.

In the paddock, drivers, sponsors and guests can relax and enjoy themselves in the stylish hospitality area, the Super Trofeo Village.

The technology – Breathtaking power

The technical basis for the Super Trofeo is already a winner – no less than the Gallardo LP 560-4, the brand’s latest model. The constructors took the basic design of its engine, transmission and chassis then carried out extensive detailed rework and refinement of all components to prepare them for racetrack performance – with the target of making the Super Trofeo the fastest one-make series in the world

As is the case for all Lamborghinis, the race car’s engine is mounted longitudinally. Located amidships, the V10 was newly developed for the LP 560-4 and has a displacement of 5,204 cm3. At 6,500 r/min, it generates 540 Nm of torque at the crankshaft and, at 8,000 r/min, a breathtaking 419 kW (570 hp). The increase of 7 kW (10 hp) against the series production model is the result of recalibrated engine management. The exhaust system was also specially developed for the task to be extremely lightweight. The V10 works with it to produce a technical symphony of powerful harmonics that builds up through the revs with a meaty crescendo to finish in a mighty fortissimo.

The naturally aspirated ten-cylinder is race engine perfection. Its number of cylinders forms the ideal synthesis of high performance, potent pulling power, light-footed high revving, low weight and compact dimensions. Its technical refinements include dry sump lubrication, which guarantees oil supply even under extreme lateral acceleration, while at the same time lowering the centre of gravity. The 90-degree cylinder angle on the crank case serves the same purpose. The block is cast in hypereutectic aluminium alloy, with the bore surfaces machined from solid. The connecting rods are made from forged steel and the pistons are aluminium.

The V10 features direct injection – “Iniezione Diretta Stratificata” – which fires the fuel through laterally-positioned injectors into the combustion chambers at pressures of up to 100 bar. Direct injection reduces knock sensitivity and provides a degree of internal cooling – thus enabling a higher compression ratio of 12.5:1, which results in a mighty power output and high levels of fuel efficiency. All four camshafts feature variable adjustment, facilitating a wide spectrum of valve control times and thus improving charge characteristics throughout the entire rev range.

Power-to-weight ratio Only 2.28 kilograms per hp

The specific output of the short-stroke engine is 109.5 hp per litre of displacement – each hp has to move no more than 2.28 kilograms, because the race car weighs in at only 1,300 kg dry.

Like the LP 560-4, the Super Trofeo also features all-wheel drive with “viscous traction” – an exclusive technology from Lamborghini. The viscous coupling in the driveline, which functions without electronic control, distributes the driving force under normal operating conditions at a ratio of 30:70. If necessary, it adjusts to specific requirements and driving conditions within just a few milliseconds. Grip is optimised at the rear axle via a mechanical differential providing up to 45 percent limited slip.

With a weight distribution of 43:57 between the front and rear axles, the Super Trofeo boasts the perfect balance for a race car. Lamborghini first introduced all-wheel drive in 1993 on the Diablo VT, because it is the best technology for the highest performance. Four driven wheels have more grip than two, enabling the driver to accelerate earlier when exiting a curve. It is not only traction that benefits from permanent all-wheel drive, but also lateral dynamics and stability.

Lamborghini is equipping the Super Trofeo with its e.gear robotized transmission as standard. It changes gear at the speed of lightning, especially at higher loads and engine speeds. The electronic gear box management, controlled by the driver via shift paddles behind the steering wheel, is optimised for the shortest possible shift times and the highest engine speed. In the race car version, Lamborghini hands over full responsibility for manoeuvring at the limit of the driver.

The chassis – Optimised for the race track

The Super Trofeo also demonstrates its supreme potential when it comes to the chassis. Aluminium double wishbones guide all four wheels, with an additional track rod adding extra stability to the rear axle. The rack and pinion steering, with discrete fluid cooling, connects the driver directly to the track thanks to its high-precision operating characteristics and relatively low power assistance. While the axle guide bearings remain unchanged, the springs are harder and the dampers shorter.

The Super Trofeo moves on 18 inch light alloy wheels, each only weighing approximately 10 kilograms. The rims are dressed in Pirelli racing tyres.

The braking system has also been developed specifically for the extreme demands of motorsport. Behind the front wheels are steel discs measuring 375 millimetres in diameter and 34 millimetres thick, while the dimensions at the rear are 365×32 mm. On the front axle, Lamborghini has mounted eight-piston callipers, with six-piston callipers to the rear. The ABS anti-lock brake system is set-up specifically for racing.

The bodyshell – Radically lightweight

Only 1,300 kilograms (dry weight) – the Super Trofeo shows its race car character on the scales too. Compared with the series production sports car, the weight has been reduced by 110 kg; this includes the ca. 35 kg added by the extra, high-strength safety cage essential for motorsport.

The bodyshell of the Super Trofeo is 4.34 metres long, 1.90 metres wide and only 1.16 metres high. It is built using the spaceframe method – cast nodes and extruded profiles create a frame into which aluminium panels are friction locked and form fitted. In typical Lamborghini fashion, the bodyshell is not only extremely light, it is also exceptionally safe and boasts tremendous torsional stiffness – forming the basis for its outstanding handling characteristics.

One glance is all it takes to see that the Super Trofeo is a top-class race car. The front skirt and the splitter that directs the airflow beneath the specially smoothed aluminium underbody, the rear bonnet and front compartment cover, the side skirts, the diffuser, the rear skirt and the large wing are all made from carbon-fibre composite. Using screws, the rear wing can be repositioned to suit the requirements of the various demanding race tracks. The bonnet and front compartment panels are opened and closed using quick-release fasteners. All windscreens and windows are made from Makrolon lightweight hi-tech polycarbonate instead of glass.

The Interior – The beauty of functionality

The majority of the weight savings achieved by Lamborghini in the Super Trofeo took place in the vehicle’s interior. Finished in black Alcantara, its panels are made from carbon-fibre composite. The roof and parts of the doors are presented uncovered – displaying the raw beauty of functional technology. The carpet and sound-absorbing acoustic materials have been removed, as have the dual-zone climate control and audio and multimedia systems. Regardless of weight removal, every one of the uncompromisingly high-quality criteria characteristic to the Lamborghini brand still applies – even more so in the construction of the Super Trofeo.

Instead of the series production electrically adjustable sports seats, the Super Trofeo is equipped with one low-mounted racing bucket seat, which provides perfect ergonomic support to the driver. The seat is produced in extremely light and stiff Kevlar carbon-fibre composite and upholstered in black fabric. Its underside is made from black anodized aluminium. Six-point racing harnesses secure the upper body. The racing bucket seat alone saves over 50 kilograms.

A data display system integrated into the race car’s CAN bus retains all the key information relating to the function and status of the technology. The small racing steering wheel with its chunky rim can be removed for entering the vehicle via a quick-release fastener. Shift lights in the instrument panel indicate when a rev limit has been reached, while an additional display shows lap times. A main switch for the on-board electrical network and a fire extinguishing system – both of which can be activated from outside the vehicle – complete the specific equipment in the race car made for the Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo.

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