The 2024 UIM F2 World Championship kicked off in dramatic fashion this past weekend in Brindisi, where 18 competitors from 12 nations battled fiercely on the Adriatic waters. The challenging conditions of the port city provided a perfect amphitheatre for powerboat racing, setting the stage for a gripping 38-lap race.
Italian driver Tullio Abbate seized Pole Position after Saturday's qualifying, positioning himself as a favorite amidst rough racing conditions. However, the spotlight also shone on his nephew, Giacomo Sacchi-Abbate, starting alongside him on the grid and eager to challenge for the lead.
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As the sun set over the Italian waters, the race commenced with Sacchi-Abbate initially leading but quickly challenged by British racer Matthew Palfreyman. Palfreyman's strategic move during the restart saw him snatch the lead, setting a relentless pace towards victory.
Norway's Tobias Munthe-Kaas faced early misfortune, flipping out early in the race, while a fierce battle ensued behind the leaders for third place among Tullio Abbate, Mathilda Wiberg, and Duarte Benavente. Wiberg, showing impressive speed throughout the weekend, saw her race cut short by a mechanical issue, leaving the podium open for contention.
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With Palfreyman maintaining a commanding lead in the closing laps, disaster struck for Sacchi-Abbate, allowing Tullio Abbate to secure second place. The race concluded with Palfreyman claiming his first win of the season, followed by Edgaras Riabko and Duarte Benavente rounding out the podium after post-race penalties reshuffled the standings, Abbate was penalized with one-lap deduction for being in the wrong position at the restart after the race.
Reflecting on his victory, Palfreyman expressed gratitude to his team and family, emphasizing the race's toughness and the pivotal moment that led to his triumph. Looking ahead, he eagerly anticipates the next round of the championship in Tonsberg, Norway, poised to continue his pursuit of the World Championship title.
The UIM F2 World Championship promises further excitement with upcoming rounds across six venues, culminating in the fight for the championship crown.
Pictures by Viesturs Lacis