Endurance test in Portimao: Successful 24h-race debut for the Mercedes-AMG GT4

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The 24h-race in Portimao marked the second long distance race within one week for the Mercedes-AMG Testteam BLACK FALCON and the Mercedes-AMG GT4. The first 24h-weekend did not start optimal: During a free practice session on Thursday, the car suffered damage when a competitor crashed into it. The necessary repair cost the team a lot of time that was scheduled for setup work. Instead, the drivers used the two qualifying sessions on Friday to set up the car after it was fully repaired and set the fifth fastest time in class, determining the final starting position. In the final night-training session on Friday evening, which is a free practice and does not influence the starting positions, the team set the fastest time in class SP2.

Once the race was started the new Mercedes-AMG GT4 unveiled its potential. Starting driver Manuel Metzger quickly won a few positions overall and in class. During the first third of the race the team started testing different brake components to find out which one is optimal for long distance races. The component changes cost number 2 a significant amount of time standing in the pits. However, the car proved its durability during the rest of the race completing the distance without any problems. After 24 Hours, the crew crossed the finish line as 17^th overall and 5^th in class.

“We could have achieved a better result without the accident on Thursday and the brake testing”, Mercedes-AMG driver Manuel Metzger summarized. “Nevertheless, the race was a great success. All drivers were very happy with the car.”

The next race for BLACK FALCON is already imminent: At the sixth round of the VLN championship at the Nürburgring, the team will enter four cars. The whole event can be followed live on the official website in English and German.