Racers in Isolation: Marco Mapelli

Next up in Sportscar365’s Racers in Isolation series is reigning GT World Challenge Europe powered by AWS champion Marco Mapelli (Instagram/Twitter).

The Lamborghini factory driver has a packed schedule to get on with when racing gets back underway, split between a GTWC Europe title defense and a new Intercontinental GT Challenge powered by Pirelli effort, both with Orange 1 FFF Racing Team.

Where are you sitting out the COVID-19 pandemic?

I’m at home in Lugano (in Switzerland, on the Italian border), and it’s an unreal feeling, honestly. For weeks most of Italy’s borders have been closed, but here it’s still possible to train outside so when I pass by them on my bike it’s like being in another world.

What’s your go-to for food when no-one feels like cooking?

I’m alone here so I have to cook, but the easiest thing to do is always some pasta!

Current favorite Netflix/TV show?

I’ve just finished the last season of Power, and now I have to wait a few days for the new Money Heist season to be released.

Do you have any pets?

I love dogs. My family always had one when I was young but not, with all my traveling, I can’t really have one.

Favorite section of any race track in the world?

Definitely the Nordschleife, it’s just the best place in the planet and the section from the Karussel to Döttinger Höhe is just amazing.

The funniest thing you have heard or said over a team radio?

During testing I always enjoy making fun on the radio while my teammates are driving. Especially when the complaining starts!

What music are you listening to at the moment?

I like a lot of house and electronic music, listening to that helps my motivation, especially during indoor bike sessions.

Is there a track/race on your bucket list that you’d like to visit/race one day?

The 24 Hours of Le Mans, 100 percent!

What’s the one thing you are most looking forward to the first day you return to a race track?

Just jumping in the car, plugging in the radio, cheering all the guys and seeing them smiling.