Qatar WEC 2025: Ferrari Achieves Unmatched One-Two-Three Podium Finish

A triumphant moment for Ferrari – AF Corse unfolded at the Lusail circuit, where they celebrated a historic triple victory in the opening round of the 2025 FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) during the 1812 KM of Qatar. A testament to their prowess, the team, piloting the revamped 499P Hypercars, showcased not only exceptional speed but also strategic excellence, setting a high standard for the season.

The race culminated in Antonio Fuoco, Miguel Molina, and Nicklas Nielsen steering their number 50 499P to victory, narrowly outpacing their teammates in the number 83 car, piloted by Yifei Ye, Robert Kubica, and Phil Hanson, who took second place. The podium was completed by another Ferrari – AF Corse team, consisting of Alessandro Pier Guidi, James Calado, and Antonio Giovinazzi, who secured third place. This extraordinary showing underscored Ferrari's dominance in the race.

With the 499P leading the charge from the beginning, the race was a display of Ferrari's unmatched potential. The number 51 car held the lead initially, with its sister car, number 50, quickly advancing to second place from its third-place start. This set the stage for Ferrari's dominance throughout the race, maintaining the lead with both cars showcasing exceptional performance, tire management, and team strategy. Despite facing two drive-through penalties, the Pier Guidi-Calado-Giovinazzi crew staged a commendable comeback, with Pier Guidi also setting the fastest lap of the race, further illustrating the team's resilience and skill.

Antonio Fuoco, driver of the 499P #50, expressed his pride in the team's performance, stating, "We performed very well in the race, both in tyre management and strategy. What we achieved today, with three Ferraris in the top positions at the end of a World Endurance Championship race, will go down in history." His teammate, Miguel Molina, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of starting the season with a victory and their ambition to pursue the world title for Ferrari. Nicklas Nielsen also highlighted the race's challenges and the effectiveness of their tire management and strategic decisions, contributing to their triumph.

Antonello Coletta, Global Head of Ferrari Endurance and Corse Clienti, commended the team's one-two-three finish as a significant reward for their efforts, emphasizing their focus on optimizing every aspect of the car and team organization. This meticulous preparation was evident in the number 51 crew's successful podium finish despite penalties, showcasing Ferrari's strategic prowess and tire management skills.

During the race, Ferrari and Alfardan Sports Motors offered an exclusive experience for VIP guests in the Ferrari Hospitality Lounge. The event, attended by Enrico Galliera, Chief Marketing and Commercial Officer at Ferrari HQ, provided guests with first-class Italian hospitality and a front-row seat to the thrilling action, fostering a connection between passionate fans and the legendary racing spirit of Ferrari.

The 499P, marking Ferrari's return to the pinnacle of endurance racing, continues to push technological and performance boundaries. The 2025 edition of the Le Mans Hypercar retains its powerful twin-turbo V6 hybrid powertrain, bridging the gap between Ferrari's racing and road-going vehicles. The latest design iteration, featuring the iconic Ferrari red complemented by Giallo Modena accents, enhances visibility while honoring Ferrari's enduring legacy in endurance racing.

Ferrari's victory in Qatar adds to its impressive tally in the FIA WEC, including two memorable wins at the 24 Hours of Le Mans and a victory at COTA last year. This marks the first time in 53 years that Ferrari concludes a race in the top class of endurance racing with three cars leading, amassing 66 points in the manufacturers' standings. With the season now in full swing, Ferrari looks forward to the next challenge at Imola on 20 April 2025, intent on maintaining its momentum throughout the championship rounds across the globe.

The season promises intense competition, with stops in Belgium, France, Brazil, the USA, Japan, and Bahrain, each offering Ferrari the opportunity to showcase their advancements and strive for further victories. As the action moves to Imola, fans and competitors alike eagerly anticipate what the rest of the season holds for Ferrari and its formidable 499P Hypercars.