8Star Motorsports started their 2013 FIA World Endurance Championship campaign by topping the time sheets at the Paul Ricard pre-season test.
The team debuted their new orange Ferrari 458 Italia, as team principle Enzo Potolicchio was joined by Rui Aguas, Philipp Peter and V8 Supercars driver Jason Bright at the test.
Having showed promising times throughout the two-day test, Peter’s lap time of 1:59.455 in the fifth and final session was the fastest time in the GTE class. The team managed a total of 235 laps over the two days, despite unfavourable conditions on both mornings.
“For us, the test was quite positive,” said Potolicchio. “We managed to do some extensive running with the Michelin tires and try different compounds and collect data. These were my first laps at Le Castellet and also in the Ferrari GTE car, so there was a lot to learn. But we kept fine tuning and ended up with the fastest time on Saturday. I think we all did a good job. I’m really happy to be back in the WEC and also pleased with the progress we made.”
The Paul Ricard test also confirmed the 8Star line-up for the 2013 World Endurance Championship. The 6 Hours of Silverstone and 6 Hours of Spa will see Potolicchio, Aguas and Peter take the wheel, before being joined by Bright at the Le Mans 24 Hours, who will make his debut in endurance racing.
“We’re very happy with the lineup we have for Silverstone, Spa and Le Mans,” added Potolicchio. “It will be great working with Rui for the season. He’s certainly one of the best ‘Silver’ drivers out there and brings a lot of experience from AF Corse. Philipp is our ‘Pro’ and he’s already proven his pace. I’m also excited to have Jason for Le Mans, as I know he’ll be one of the top drivers there, even if it will be his first time in the race. I think our average, as drivers, will be the winning package to fight for the championship.”
