HTP Mercedes Tops Free Practice 1 in Misano

Franck Perera in the No. 84 HTP Motorsport Mercedes-AMG GT3 posted the quickest time in the first practice session for the Blancpain GT Series Sprint Cup opener at Misano, beating last year’s pole position time by over two-tenths.

The car of reigning overall Blancpain GT champion Maxi Buhk and Perera reeled off a lap in 1:32.927 under optimal conditions, 0.297s in front of the No. 66 Attempto Lamborghini Huracán GT3 of Marco Mapelli, who put in his fastest lap right at the end of the 80-minute session.

The No. 42 Strakka Racing McLaren 650S GT3 of Nick Leventis and Lewis Williamson ended up in third, while the No. 86 and 85 HTP cars completed the top five. 

Two of the 34 cars taking part in the session did not post a lap time, as the No. 58 Strakka Racing McLaren had clutch issues and the No. 3 Team WRT Audi R8 LMS suffered a fire in the engine bay.

The fire was caused by an electrical failure around the alternator, it’s not clear yet whether the engine will have to be changed.

Night practice will get underway 8:30 p.m. local time.

RESULTS: Free Practice 1