foto ©KSP Photo Agency
The FIA Karting International Super Cup – KZ2 was clearly one of the big events where James Wharton was keen to showcase his skills. In order to achieve the desired results, the Australian spared no effort in fine-tuning his preparation. “I entered the KZ2 category with its 125cc gearbox engine only a few months ago. I had a lot to learn about technique, strategy and how to take a standing start. All in all, I think I’ve matured and everything I’ve learnt will help me when I get into a single-seater.”
Two fastest laps in the race!
For James Wharton, the meeting started with a steady progression through the Free Practice sessions, followed by a 22nd fastest time in Qualifying. “I had put in a better performance in the previous session, but we had some difficulties running on fresh tyres on this track where the grip level is not very high. This meant I started from the fourth row in my five heats, knowing that I had the possibility of moving up to the front thanks to the competitiveness of my Parolin-TM Racing package.”
Determined and focused not to be unnecessarily penalised, James had a perfect run in the Qualifying Heats, following his team’s instructions to the letter. He finished successively 5th, 7th, 4th, 5th and 4th, while setting two fastest laps in the race.
A welcome performance before single-seaters
After finishing 2nd in his group’s warm-up on Sunday morning, the Australian felt that an excellent result was possible starting from 9th position on the starting grid for the Final. “However, I struggled to keep my place in the jostle for position in the early laps and was only 12th by the end of lap three. I stayed calm and focused on each rival I had in front of me. I was able to gain places as the laps went by, passing several competitors and even gaining a final position on the last lap. I learned that you should never give up and always fight until the chequered flag! I would like to thank all the Parolin Motorsport team, my engine manufacturer Galiffa Engines, the Ferrari Driver Academy, All Road Management, all my partners, my family and all those who have supported me throughout the year.”
With 5th in the KZ2 World Cup in Sweden, James Wharton is now ready to make his debut in a single-seater, with the first tests scheduled very soon.
