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Bas Leinders, Optimum's manager, tells about the preparation and expectations from the first round of GT Open 2020.
This is the third weekend in a row in three different championships for Optimum Motorsport. How did you prepare for this first International GT Open meeting?
The decision of our drivers to compete in the GT Open with the McLaren came relatively late, but due to the lack of competition, we were still able to take part in several days of testing. All four drivers are new to GT Open, so we tried to put some training on pit stop procedures. This is something that is often underestimated, everyone wants to go fast on the track, but one can win or lose so much time in the way of the stands.
You have two cars in Pro-Am with drivers arriving from the GT4…
These guys are ambitious, even with very little or almost no racing experience for Nick and Brendan who decided to switch to GT3. I think at Optimum Motorsport, we have the perfect environment to help them in the best way possible. We have been very familiar with the championship for two years and we are sure that they will enjoy it all.
The weather looks hot in Budapest this weekend. Is this a handicap for your drivers?
Although air conditioning is available in race cars, it's still very hot in the cabin. Remember that driving a race car is physically very demanding because even professional drivers, who train almost every day, can sometimes have difficulties in these conditions. Pilots will need to make sure that they have enough rest before the weekend, closely monitor everything they eat and drink during the week.
What will be your main opponents ?
There are a lot of good teams and crews in the championship, but if you have to name one, there is no doubt that Teo Martin Motorsport remains a reference in GT Open. They narrowly missed the title last year and they also have a McLaren 720S GT3. They, like us, will be extremely motivated to get on the podium and bring the cup home. We will push as much as possible, but we must remain realistic for this first event. The main goal will be to finish the races without any problems and that our drivers take as much experience as possible.
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