In an exciting qualifying session at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, Pipo Derani put in a stunning performance to secure pole position in the #31 Action Express Racing Cadillac V-Series.R. Derani’s lap time of 1m32.656s around the 3.56-mile circuit was not only faster than last year’s record, but also faster than the previous fastest-ever prototype lap. It was an impressive display of skill and speed from the Brazilian driver.
Sebastien Bourdais, representing Chip Ganassi Racing, was the closest challenger to Derani. Falling only 0.071s behind, Bourdais had to settle for second place. It was a strong performance, but ultimately he couldn’t match Derani’s pace. Nevertheless, Bourdais will surely be a force to be reckoned with in the upcoming race.
Felipe Nasr of #7 Porsche Penske Motorsport 963 had an adventurous run during qualifying. Despite spinning off in Turn 5, Nasr managed to regain control and set a lap time that secured him third place. The Brazilian driver ended up 0.220s off the record time, showcasing his resilience and determination.
Connor De Phillippi showcased the potential of the BMW M Hybrid V8, finishing fourth in qualifying. His lap time of only 0.366s behind Derani was an impressive display of speed and skill. De Phillippi will be aiming to convert his strong qualifying performance into a competitive race result.
In fifth place was Louis Deletraz, driving the #40 Wayne Taylor Racing with Andretti Acura ARX-06. Deletraz trailed 0.444s off pole, demonstrating his ability to stay competitive among the top drivers. With consistent performances like this, Deletraz has the potential to challenge for victory in the race.
Ben Keating continued to assert his dominance in the LMP2 class, securing pole position for the fifth straight year. Driving the #2 United Autosports USA ORECA, Keating set a time of 1m38.501s, leaving his competitors trailing behind. Nick Boulle, in the #52 ORECA for Inter Europol by PR1 Mathiasen Motorsports, came closest to Keating’s time, but still fell short by 0.102s.
Seb Priaulx of GTDAO Racing claimed the top spot in the GTD Pro class, setting a new class track record. Priaulx’s time of 1m44.382s in the Porsche 911 GT3 R (992) was substantially faster than last year’s mark. Jack Hawksworth of #14 Vasser Sullivan Lexus RC F GT3 came in a close second, trailing Priaulx by only 0.080s.
Parker Thompson, Hawksworth’s teammate, put the team’s #12 entry on pole in the GTD class. His impressive lap time of 1m44.494s was just 0.043s ahead of Klaus Bachler in the MDK Motorsports Porsche 911 GT3 R (992). Thompson’s strong performance sets him up as a driver to watch in the upcoming race.
Pipo Derani’s incredible lap time not only secured him pole position but also broke the previous record at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. His performance was a testament to his skill and the capabilities of the #31 Action Express Racing Cadillac V-Series.R. Derani will undoubtedly be hoping to convert his pole position into a victory in the race.
Overall, the qualifying session at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca showcased the impressive skills and determination of the drivers. With Derani taking pole position and several close battles throughout the field, the stage is set for an exciting and highly competitive race. Fans can look forward to thrilling battles for position and the potential for new lap records to be set.
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