Magny-Cours Rocks: 27,000 Spectators Flock to Annual Motorsport Festival

The Magny-Cours circuit in France was abuzz with excitement as it welcomed a record-breaking 27,000 spectators to its annual festival of motorsport. The event, which took place over the weekend, featured a packed schedule of track action, including the GT World Challenge powered by AWS Sprint Cup, as well as a range of fan activities and support races.

The GT World Challenge powered by AWS Sprint Cup was the main attraction, with 44 cars taking to the 4.4km circuit for two 60-minute races. The series, which is one of the most competitive in the world of GT racing, saw Mercedes-AMG Team Verstappen Racing claim a breakthrough victory in the opening contest. Jules Gounon and Dani Juncadella drove a faultless race to take the top step of the podium, ahead of the #7 Comtoyou Racing Aston Martin and the #50 AF Corse Ferrari.

The second race of the weekend was a more complicated affair, with a red flag interruption and a sensational pit stop from Lionspeed GP making the difference. The #80 Porsche of Ricardo Feller and Bastian Buus took the win, with the #30 Team WRT BMW of Matisse Lismont and Ignacio Montenegro finishing second. The result marked a significant gain in the fight for the Sprint Cup title, with the BMW duo also securing career-best finishes and putting one hand on the Silver Cup title.

Off the circuit, fans were treated to a range of activities, including four pit walks, autograph sessions, and open podium celebrations. The event also featured a range of support races, including the FFSA French GT, TC and F4 Championships, as well as the Porsche Carrera Cup France and MitJet Trophy France. The weekend's racing schedule was packed, with 17 races taking place over the course of the event.

The success of the Magny-Cours festival of motorsport is a testament to the enduring popularity of the sport in France. The event has a long history, dating back to the 1960s, and has hosted a range of high-profile races over the years, including Formula One and the 24 Hours of Le Mans. The circuit itself is known for its challenging layout, with a mix of fast sweeps and slow hairpins that push drivers to their limits.

The GT World Challenge powered by AWS will take a four-week summer break before returning to action with an Endurance Cup race at the Nürburgring on 28-30 August. The German round will feature a busy support line-up, including Lamborghini Super Trofeo, the GT3 Revival Series, and Mazda MX-5 Cup Benelux. Fans can purchase tickets for the event by clicking here.

In conclusion, the Magny-Cours festival of motorsport was a resounding success, with a record-breaking crowd and a packed schedule of racing and activities. The event highlighted the strength and depth of the GT World Challenge powered by AWS, as well as the popularity of motorsport in France. As the series heads into its summer break, fans will be eagerly anticipating the next round of racing and the opportunity to see their favorite drivers and teams in action once again.