Volante Rosso's Expansion: A McLaren's Second Chance
In a surprising turn of events, Volante Rosso has acquired a McLaren 720S, a car that once tasted success on Australian soil. This move marks a strategic expansion for the team, as they aim to strengthen their presence in the GT World Challenge Australia. With a short but impressive history, the McLaren 720S has already proven its mettle, finishing second in the 2020 Bathurst 12 Hour.
The car, campaigned by 59Racing, boasts a remarkable performance record. Driven by the talented trio of Ben Barnicoat, Tom Blomqvist, and Alvaro Parente, it dominated the race, showcasing its potential. However, its journey since then has been somewhat nomadic, residing in New Zealand and rarely seeing action. Now, it finds a new home with Volante Rosso, ready to embark on a new chapter.
Team director Josh Hunt, a seasoned veteran, has been at the helm of Volante Rosso's McLaren program. Alongside GT veteran Geoff Emery, they have been navigating the challenges of the sport. Unfortunately, their last outing at Queensland Raceway was cut short due to sponsorship issues, leaving them on the sidelines. Despite this setback, the team remains resilient, focusing on their next opportunity.
The upcoming GT World Challenge Australia round at Hidden Valley in late July will not feature Volante Rosso. However, this absence is not without purpose. Hunt reveals their plan to prepare the McLaren 720S for Round 5 in Sydney, with the possibility of entering three cars. This strategic move highlights their commitment to excellence and their belief in the McLaren brand.
Hunt's enthusiasm is palpable, as he praises the car's exceptional condition and factory-checked options. He expresses confidence in its performance, both on the track and in terms of track time optimization. McLaren's support and the team's belief in the brand's potential are key factors in their success trajectory.
Despite the setback at Hidden Valley, Hunt remains optimistic. He acknowledges the challenges of driver commitments but sees it as an opportunity to refine their plans for Sydney. The team's ambition is clear: to dominate with both McLarens and the Aston Martin. This expansion showcases Volante Rosso's growth and their determination to make a mark in the GT World Challenge Australia.
As the sport continues to evolve, Volante Rosso's acquisition of the McLaren 720S is a significant development. It raises questions about the team's future strategies and their potential impact on the competition. With Hunt's leadership and McLaren's support, Volante Rosso is poised for success, leaving fans eager to witness their performance on the track.
In my opinion, this move by Volante Rosso is a strategic masterstroke. It showcases their adaptability and belief in the power of second chances. The McLaren 720S, with its impressive history, is now in capable hands, ready to write a new chapter in the team's journey. As the GT World Challenge Australia unfolds, Volante Rosso's expansion will undoubtedly be a topic of interest, leaving fans intrigued and excited for what's to come.
