The Enzo and Dino Ferrari Autodrome in Imola was the stage for the sixth and final round of the Italian Speed Championship.
Kevin Manfredi, driving the Suzuki of Team Penta Motorsport, once again brought the only Gs XR present in the European national championships to the leading positions.
This year, the Spezzino participated in only three races of the Italian Speed Championship, but he demonstrated a natural ability and exceptional talent that allowed the team led by Ivan Goretti to constantly compete for the top positions.
In race one, only electronic problems limited the result, with a sixth place which nevertheless gave reason for hope in view of race two.
In Sunday morning's Warmup, Kevin demonstrated his speed, finishing in fourth place on used tyres, just 0.5 tenths from first place.
Unfortunately, the second race was less fortunate, with the Team Penta driver ending up off the track due to a contact with another driver. After an incredible start, Kevin was trying with all his might to catch up with the leading group, but bad luck played a decisive role.
Kevin: “I am very happy with the speed we showed once again. We have to keep in mind that we did not participate in the entire championship and did not carry out any tests during the year, but in every race we took part in we were always among the best. Nobody expected our competitiveness on a 2017 bike, now very dated compared to the competition. However, together with the team, we have always done an excellent job and managed to get noticed.
In the first race, a problem with the tone wheel slowed us down and forced us to finish sixth, but after the warmup I knew I could do well in race 2, especially in the final stages. So, in the first laps, I tried to push to recover positions. Unfortunately, at the entrance to the Tosa curve, I came into contact with another rider. I'm sorry for ruining our race and Samuele's, but these are races and every now and then it can happen.”
Kevin Manfredi concludes the Italian Championship with a podium and three top 6s, results that the Hamamatsu house has been missing for some time in the Italian Championship.
The winter break officially begins today, during which the Spezzino will work towards the 2024 season which will see him involved in many new projects and opportunities that will soon be revealed.
Kevin thanks Team Penta Motorsport for their commitment and passion, as well as all the sponsors and technical partners of the 2023 season.
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