Raphaël Lessard delivered a perfect weekend at Vallelunga, winning both NASCAR Euro Series OPEN division races and moving to within just 12 points of the championship lead.
The Canadian driver arrived in Italy knowing that the opening playoff weekend could have a major impact on the championship. With double points available in both races, there was little room for error. Lessard responded in spectacular fashion, combining speed, consistency and determination to secure two decisive victories for Alumitec Racing.
After claiming victory in the first race, Lessard returned to the track determined to complete the sweep. Despite the pressure and the importance of every championship point, he remained calm and focused behind the wheel of the No. 11 Alumitec Racing car.
Lessard once again demonstrated excellent pace from the opening laps. He managed the race intelligently, protected his position and delivered when it mattered most. By taking the checkered flag for the second time of the weekend, he completed a remarkable Vallelunga sweep and collected the maximum number of points available.
The two victories have completely transformed the OPEN championship battle. Lessard is now only 12 points behind the championship leader, setting the stage for an extremely close and intense fight during the final races of the season.
With such a small margin separating the leading contenders, every qualifying position, fastest lap, overtake and finishing result could prove decisive. The championship is now wide open, and Lessard has firmly established himself as one of the leading candidates for the title.
“This was a perfect weekend for Raphaël,” said Alain Lord Mounir, Team Principal and CEO of Alumitec Racing. “Winning both races during a double-points playoff weekend is an incredible achievement. He remained focused, drove with intelligence and delivered under enormous pressure. We are now only 12 points away from the championship lead, and we know the battle will be extremely close until the very end.”
Lessard’s success was also the result of a complete team effort. Alumitec Racing’s mechanics, engineers and crew members worked tirelessly throughout the weekend to prepare a competitive and reliable car. Their precision, dedication and ability to perform under pressure played an essential role in securing both victories.
For Lessard and Alumitec Racing, the Vallelunga weekend represented much more than two race wins. It was a statement of intent at the most important stage of the season. The team demonstrated that it has the driver, the performance and the determination required to fight for the OPEN division championship.
With momentum firmly on his side and only 12 points separating him from the championship lead, Lessard now turns his attention to the next challenge.
The battle will be incredibly tight, and every point will matter—but after sweeping Vallelunga, Raphaël Lessard has made one thing clear: he is ready to fight for the championship until the final lap.
