Benavides (Motopark) fastest in free practice, after receiving family’s boost

27.09.2024

Euroformula Open contenders found completely different conditions in Barcelona: after the rain-soaked event in Austrian, the sun was shining and temperatures were high at Montmeló for the two sessions of free practice on Friday, which were preceded by private testing on Thursday.

The fastest man on Friday was championship leader Brad Benavides, boosted by the surprise visit of many family members coming from the Americas to cheer for him. The American of Motopark posted a best time of 1.45.930, and was the only driver improving in the afternoon session. Mexico’s José Garfias was beaten by 0s159, with the best time of the morning session.  

The other title contender, Francesco Simonazzi (BVM Racing) was third (+0s263), ahead of Edward Pearson, now restablished completely from a bad flu (+0s505), and Fernando Barrichello (+0s540).

Followed the two drivers making their first appearance, Vladislav Ryabov and Ricardo Escotto.