19.10.2024
Brad Benavides could finally celebrate his 2024 Euroformula Open champion title with a win, in Race 2 at Monza, another wet and lively race but quieter for the American driver of Motopark. Mexicos’ José Garfias and the winner of Race 1 Yevan David completed the Motopark podium.
Reflecting on the title and his ninth win of the season, an emotional Benavides said: “I thank the team, my family and all those who support me, and I thank God for his grace… Let’s see what the future brings for my career”.
The American sat on pole in the reversed grid and used the advantage but had to go straight at first chicane to avoid aquaplaning. He kept the led, while Bergmeister, Barrichello, Garfias, Simonazzi, David and Ryabov. A slight contact between Bergmeister and Barrichello then forced the German to the pits for quick repairs. Barrichello continued fighting with Simonazzi but the two made contact after Lesmo, in lap 4 which resulted in the Italian retiring and the safety car being deployed.
After restart, in lap 7, Benavides, Garfias and David kept fighting but the order di not change. Ryabov took fourth ahead of Bergmeister and Barrichello, while Roubicek took his second Gold Cup of the day.