Le Mans will host the single Competition of the 2019 FIA Karting European Championship – Superkart, which will adopt a new format for the occasion, on October 26th & 27th at the Bugatti circuit (FRA).
Indeed, since the end of the 80s, the European FIA Karting – Superkart title has always been decided over several Competitions. This time, three races are on the Le Mans programme, but only the two best results will be counted.
Some warning signs suggest satisfactory participation. 33 Drivers, including four former Champions, will compete on the Bugatti for the European title. In a single Competition like this, intensity is at its peak. No one is safe from a technical problem, a bad set-up or adverse weather conditions. This uncertainty increases the motivation of the competitors as well as the quality of the show.
Among the favourites that have already been highlighted this year, the German Peter Elkmann (Anderson / VM), triple Champion crowned in 2008, 2017 and 2018, dominates the discipline and has the highest rating. His compatriot Andreas Jost (Anderson / VM), who beat him recently in Assen, has come close to his times. The Briton Liam Morley (Anderson / VM), Vice-Champion in 2017, has often had success at Le Mans, mounting several podiums.
Other talented drivers will be there with real chances in terms of their experience and particularly well-prepared equipment. Thus the Czech Adam Kout (MS Kart / DEA), European Champion in 2015 and 2016, has always been able to respond to Elkmann. Emmanuel Vinuales (MS Kart / VM) has regained the ambition to reclaim a title, as he did in 2011, 2013 and 2014. Finally, another Brit is expected to be at the forefront, Lee Harpham (MS Kart / VM) with a title in 2012, who has never abandoned Superkarts, but is making a comeback at the highest level.
Some outsiders may also have their role to play in the title race. Among the British, the experienced Carl Hulme (Anderson / VM) and Jason Dredge (Anderson / PVP) are likely to infiltrate the top group. They are now accompanied by the young Thomas Rushforth (Spyda / VM) who made impressive gains at Assen. Among the large French delegation is Alexandre Sebastia (MS Kart / DEA) who has a well-known top speed. We note the commitment of a newcomer, the KZ2 Driver Nelson Bondier (MS Kart / VM), eager to confront the best. Among the Dutch, Marcel Maasmann (Anderson / VM) was fast at home, and will be looking for a top five he has been familiar with in the European Championship. The lively Leo Kurstjens (MS Kart / VM) is also one to watch.
Provisional Timetable
Saturday, 26th October
09:10 – 09:30: Free Practice
10.40 – 10.55: Qualifying Practice 1
13:50 – 14:05: Qualifying Practice 2
16:35 – 16:55: Race 1
Sunday, 27th October
09:50 – 10:10: Race 2
14:40 – 15:00: Race 3