Strong performance by Benjamin Mazatis at the 24-hour race in Dubai
Benjamin Mazatis competed in the 24 Hours of Dubai last weekend, the traditional season opener for endurance racing. Together with his teammates, Frédéric Vervisch, Maxime Soulet, Mathieu Detry and Olivier Bertels, he achieved a spectacular comeback, moving from 43rd on the grid to fifth place overall. This also made them the best-placed Audi team in the field of 57 vehicles. A sensational performance from Mazatis, who had not been behind the wheel of a race car for the past two years due to the corona crisis and his studies, which he wanted to concentrate on one hundred percent.
The 24 Hours of Dubai race has become a highlight in the racing calendar. Formula 1 drivers Pierre Gasly and Lando Norris paid a visit to the paddock. Furthermore, Valentino Rossi didn't miss the opportunity to take part himself.
The race weekend started promisingly. The Haas Racing Team was in a strong second place after the first qualifying session. However, a technical problem arose shortly before the decisive night practice. Although this could be fixed, the Audi R8 LMS could not take part in the qualifying and had to start the race from 43rd place.
The team had nothing to lose and went on the attack. A strategy that paid off. After just three hours, the Audi in Dubai took the lead. But misfortune struck again. This time in the form of a Code 60 phase at a very unfortunate moment. The Haas Racing Team, led by Mazatis, had already completed their routine pit stop by this time. Quite the opposite of the competition, who now used the Code 60 phase to pit without losing much time. This dropped the Audi back to fourth place.
The team again had to switch to attack mode. The over two-year break was not noticeable in Mazatis. On the contrary: that night, the 25-year-old had a fierce duel in the Audi with last year's winner and BMW works driver Dries Vanthoor. The team managed to make up ground again. However, a tyre failure cost valuable time once more. Mazatis and his teammates did not give up and, despite the adverse circumstances, secured a very good fifth overall place.
Benjamin Mazatis „I'm torn. A top 5 result is a top result in such a big and prestigious race. But it doesn't feel like it. The speed was there, but unfortunately it didn't translate into the result. The lads worked so hard and we've received great support from Audi. We deserved a place on the podium for that. But that's just how it is in endurance racing. So much can happen and you have to be grateful that you finished the race.“
„We also mustn't forget that I didn't race for over two years. Contrary to many opinions, I managed to make a comeback. I had a good feeling from the start. With every metre I drove in the car, my confidence grew and I was able to push closer to the limit. I'd like to thank the Haas Racing Team for this opportunity.“
„I think that was an application for further GT3 outings. My aim is to contest the season in a GT3 vehicle. Furthermore, I would like to compete in more long-distance classics, such as the 24-hour races at Spa or the Nürburgring.“