Mandalika Superprix Unleashes Thrills and Spills: Wimberley Claims Victory in Spectacular Fashion

Lombok, January 27, 2024 - The Mandalika International Street Circuit bore witness to a breathtaking clash of talent during Formula Hololive International's Round 3, the Mandalika Superprix. The racing spectacle kept fans on the edge of their seats as drivers tackled the challenging circuit. Here's a comprehensive recap of the electrifying action that unfolded.

Aziz Muazif, representing Ayunda Risu's #62 car, clinched the pole position in a gripping qualifying session, displaying exceptional speed. The battle for supremacy was intense, with Ethan Berthelsen in the #21 Nanashi Mumei ride trailing by a mere 0.011 seconds. Zeke Wimberly, donning the colors of Ceres Fauna in car #98, secured the third spot on the grid, adding another layer of anticipation to the impending race. Notably, Angela Sims (#33 Anya Melfissa), the previous pole sitter, faced unexpected challenges and qualified in 17th, while Monika Shilage (#58 Kaela Kovalskia) started from the 8th position.

As the race kicked off, Ethan Berthelsen executed a daring move, seizing the lead from Aziz Muazif with a bold maneuver at Turn 10 on Lap 1. However, Muazif faced further challenges, slipping to third after Zeke Wimberly executed a remarkable move to claim the second position at Turn 15. The opening laps witnessed thrilling mid-field battles, with positions shifting dynamically across the grid, providing fans with an enthralling spectacle.

No pit stops were expected during the race, despite the scorching temperatures at Mandalika. The track temperature, reaching a minimum of 45 degrees Celsius, raised concerns about tire degradation and a potential fall-off in pace.

Hanaori Miyuki, driving the revamped #40 Kobo Kanaeru car, faced initial struggles in the midfield. However, she showcased determination, making a crucial overtake on Juani Castanto (#92 Ouro Kronii) on Lap 20, propelling herself to the 14th position.

Takeda Adachi (#17 Ninomae Ina'nis) experienced a setback on Lap 34 when he lost control of his car in the high-speed second sector at Turn 7, sliding into the gravel trap. Despite this, Adachi managed a swift recovery, rejoining the race from the pits with fresh tires, aiming to make up lost ground.

The race saw unfortunate incidents, including a collision between Sven Jensen (#86 IRyS) and Kento Kai (#85 Hakos Baelz) on Turn 1 on Lap 46. Keiko Takaboshi also faced a similar fate on Lap 50. Both incidents led to cars teleporting back to the pit lane, providing them with an opportunity to rejoin the race with newly fitted tires.

In the latter stages of the race, Zeke Wimberley found himself in contention for victory, taking the lead from Berthelsen on Lap 44. However, the race's climax unfolded amidst lapped cars, causing challenges for Wimberley. On Lap 53, Monika Shilage made a spirited move at Turn 16, securing the lead. Unfortunately, a collision with Miyuki on the following lap saw both cars spin out, dashing Shilage's hopes of a back-to-back victory at Mandalika.

Seizing the opportunity, Wimberley navigated through the chaos, securing his first Formula Hololive International win and marking a historic moment for Ceres Fauna in Adak-RMS Organization competitions.

Wimberley expressed his elation, stating, "Yeah, it's a wonderful win for Fauna, the Saplings watching too. I knew I just needed to be there at the front and capitalize on any mistakes there. And I made use of the incidents around me."

The Mandalika Circuit delivered a gripping race, and with the Indonesia Grand Prix set to unfold tomorrow afternoon at the same venue, the Formula Hololive International season promises more high-octane excitement and fierce competition. Drivers must stay vigilant to maximize their chances in the quest for this season's championship.