Janice R. Andrews
A Nostalgic Return to the Temple of Speed
Rubens Barrichello, the seasoned Formula 1 veteran, is set to make a sentimental comeback to Monza, a circuit that has been instrumental in shaping his illustrious career. This Italian track, where Barrichello clinched three of his eleven F1 victories, is poised to witness his return in a different avatar – as a competitor in the International GT Open series.
Monza: A Track Steeped in Memories
Barrichello’s relationship with Monza is nothing short of legendary. His triumphs here include two victories with Ferrari in 2002 and 2004, during the team’s dominant era, and a memorable win with Brawn GP in 2009. These victories, particularly those in Ferrari’s iconic red, remain etched in the annals of motorsport history.
Rekindling an Old Partnership
What makes this return particularly poignant is Barrichello’s reunion with Il Barone Rampante (IBR), the team he raced for in the 1992 International Formula 3000 championship. This was a crucial stepping stone in Barrichello’s journey to Formula 1, where he secured a third-place finish in the championship standings.
Now, 30 years later, Barrichello will partner with IBR’s founder, Guiseppe Cipriani, in a Lamborghini Huracan GT3 for the 2024 season finale of the GT Open series at Monza.
Venturing into GT Racing
While this marks Barrichello’s debut in the International GT Open, he’s no novice to GT racing. In 2022, he tasted victory in an Italian GT round at Vallelunga, sharing the podium with fellow ex-F1 driver Giancarlo Fisichella.
Expressing his excitement, Barrichello said, “I’m thrilled to race at Monza with Il Barone Rampante in the Lamborghini Huracan. Competing in Monza has always been special for me, given my past successes and the incredible support from the fans.”
A Family Affair on the Track
Adding to the excitement, Barrichello’s son, Fernando, will also be competing at Monza on the same weekend in the Euroformula Open. This father-son racing duo adds a heartwarming dimension to the event, showcasing the continuation of the Barrichello racing legacy.
Looking Ahead
As the 2024 International GT Open season concludes, Barrichello’s participation adds an extra layer of excitement to the finale. His return to Monza, a track that has been pivotal in his career, promises to be a memorable event for motorsport enthusiasts worldwide.
This comeback not only celebrates Barrichello’s storied career but also highlights his enduring passion for racing. Whether in an F1 car or a GT3 machine, Barrichello’s competitive spirit and his special connection with Monza remain undiminished, making this return a must-watch event for racing fans globally.
