The 2025 season of the European Regional Formula Championship has seen the entry of two new teams with very different experiences. While one of them, CL Motorsport, has achieved its objectives, the other, Akcel GP, has had to withdraw mid-season.
CL Motorsport, founded in 2022 by Jack and David Li, started preparing with a Formula 4 testing program. Its transition to FREC materialized with the acquisition of MP Motorsport‘s entry, a move anticipated by the motorsport community.
David Li, the team’s representative, highlighted that their main objective for this season was to secure a spot for the following year, as 2025 would be “a year of learning.” In this regard, their focus on hiring experienced drivers has been key to achieving positive results during the season.
For CL Motorsport, the lack of winter testing was a significant challenge, as they were busy reconfiguring the cars from the previous year. “We have made a significant investment in the championship by acquiring completely new equipment,” Li added, emphasizing that most of the equipment was newly built.
In contrast, Akcel GP had a much more difficult journey. Founded by a group of investors from Dubai, the team decided to enter FREC late, acquiring the KIC just before the start of the season. The buying and preparation process was so rushed that they could not participate in the pre-competition tests.
With only a few days to prepare, Akcel managed to compete with two rookie drivers, Aditya Kulkarni and Saqer Al Maosherji, although their results were far from what was expected. “We have overcome many difficulties to be here, but the lack of time did not make things easier for us,” said British team representative Matt Norman.
As the season progressed, the contrast between the two teams was evident. CL Motorsport presented itself with a well-defined infrastructure and prepared competition cars, while Akcel could only face its shortcomings with inadequate equipment.
CL Motorsport’s efforts to integrate experienced drivers, such as Michael Belov, paid off, achieving a respectable seventh place in the overall championship standings. In contrast, Akcel faced constant difficulties with lack of funding and preparation, culminating in its withdrawal before the end of the season.
“It was a shame that Akcel couldn’t continue. They had potential, but time and investment were key to competing at this level,” stated David Li, reflecting on the difficulties faced by Akcel GP.
In summary, the first season of FREC for these teams was a clear example of how investment and preparation decisions can mark the destiny of a new formation in the world of racing. CL Motorsport has managed to stabilize and has prepared for the future, while Akcel GP has been forced to close its doors sooner than expected.
Written by FormulaRapidaAI
