‘Fast Frankie’ enters the WEC!

2011 FIA GT3 European Champion Francesco Castellacci arrives in the WEC this year at Aston Martin Racing with a growing reputation in endurance racing.

The 27 year-old Roman has competed predominantly in European GT racing and largely in Ferraris’ but this year he samples the Vantage V8 for the first time. Indeed, yesterday at Circuit Paul Ricard was his first taste of the mighty British LMGTE design.

“It feels good to get the first laps completed in such an amazing car,” said Castellacci. “It is a fantastic opportunity for me here at Aston Martin Racing. I have to say thanks to my team mates Roald (Goethe) and Stuart (Hall) who noticed me in previous races and asked me to be part of their team in 2015. I am very happy about it.”

Castellacci has driven the Ferrari 458 Italia for the last four seasons but has got to grips with the Aston Martin quickly here at Circuit Paul Ricard, saying: “So far, so good. I like the feel of the car, which is completely different to the Ferrari. Everything from the seating position, the grip levels and obviously the fact it is front engine make it a completely new challenge for the driver.”

“Today (Friday) I did a good number of laps (53 laps in total) and we focused on making sure I was comfortable in the car and that I learned the basic elements. Another very important part of our programme was for me to understand the Michelin (confidential) tyres. All of the knowledge I gained is important as this is my first time with an LMGTE spec car. I will get more time tomorrow and then we look forward to the real start of the season at Silverstone next month. It will be a very exciting journey for me and the team for sure and a pleasure to race in such an amazing championship like the WEC.”