This weekend, the team from Willsbach lines up in round two of the International GT Open at Circuit Paul Ricard. SPS automotive performance will field one Mercedes-AMG GT3 with familiar drivers Valentin Pierburg and Christian Hook (both GER) in both races.
Willsbach – From August 20 to 23, the International GT Open will be at Circuit Paul Ricard, not far from the Côte d’Azur. Valentin Pierburg and Christian Hook will be at the wheel of the #20 Mercedes-AMG GT3 when the SPS automotive performance car takes on the opposition in the AM class. One race is scheduled for both Saturday (70 minutes) and Sunday (60 minutes). Pierburg, who has been driving for SPS automotive performance for many years, won the PRO-AM title in the International GT Open in 2018.
In recent years, the races in the GT series have been a permanent fixture on the race calendar for SPS automotive performance. Pierburg has claimed three class victories and a further three podiums with the SPS team and his team-mate at the time, Tom Onslow-Cole (GBR). SPS did originally plan to contest the full season again with the Mercedes-AMG GT3 this year. However, the team has had to change its plans due to global developments caused by the coronavirus (COVID-19). Unfortunately, this initially meant omitting the International GT Open from the 2020 motorsport schedule.
As such, it is all the more pleasing that the team will now make a guest appearance in the series this coming weekend. The first practice sessions at the 5.842-kilometre circuit in Le Castellet begin on Friday, August 21.
Stephan Sohn, team principal SPS automotive performance: “Unfortunately, we have had to adapt our programme, due to recent developments. A full season in the International GT Open was no longer possible. However, I am delighted that we are able to compete as guest starters. I hope we can make a lasting impression with a successful appearance with our new Mercedes-AMG GT3. Maybe we will be able to make one or two more guest appearances over the course of the season.”
