FIA GT 2004: Pirelli gains an historical victory with Maserati

Although it has debut only 15 days ago at Imola, the Maserati has imposed itself on the twisting German track after a race in which the technical choices dictated by the fallen rain before the start they have been revealed determining. On a humid asphalt, but destined to dry up in a few laps, the MC 12 have left with conservative tactical that has previewed the use of the intermediate tyres. In these conditions Bertolini has held to along and enough easily the second position, before passing to the PZero slick tyres that they have concurred to hold a great rhythm. The Maserati in dry asphalt conditions is demonstrated a balanced and fast machine and it has succeeded to win also thanks to a long final stint in which they have not been changed tyres. "The machine today has been very good - has explained Bertolini- we have made a great job and we must thanks Pirelli that it has supplied us with great tyres that have concurred us to carry out a double stint". It's a pity only because this is a "virtual" victory for the FIA restrictions. Misfortune for the other Maserati droved by De Simone and Herbert that have had to face an unexpected pause because of a nut that wasn't well mounted. The Vitaphone-Saleen of the Konrad team after to be last at the start because has replaced the engine in the qualifying, thanks to the new P Zero has been expressed in a great recovery that in 17 laps only has returned at the lead of the race. Bartels and Alzen have had to raise the white flag for the breach of a detail of the rear suspension that has forced them in the rears. Same fate for the other Saleen lead from Lechenr Jr near a probable victory before a drive-through penalty in order to have changed the tyres on the pit lane outside the time limit and then from the breach of the starter. Misfortune also for the Ferrari 575 of GPC Squadra Corse that have suffered troubles to the engine. Regarding the Ferrari 360 Modena in N-GT of the GPC Squadra Corse team has classified herself in third position preceded from the Porsche squadron whom has played on the home track. At Oschersleben Cappellari and Gollin (Ferrari 550 Maranello- Scuderia Italia) have graduated the driver's world Championship.