London, Wednesday 23 April 2025 – The unmistakable sound of Ferrari engines returns this weekend as the Ferrari Challenge Trofeo Pirelli UK series launches into its seventh season, ushering in a bold new chapter for the marque’s one-make championship. For the first time in series history, Spain’s Circuito de Navarra plays host to Round 1, setting the stage for what promises to be a landmark year in Ferrari UK motorsport.
But the new venue is not the only change making headlines. The 2025 season marks the debut of the Ferrari 296 Challenge, the latest evolution in the Prancing Horse’s racing pedigree. This cutting-edge machine replaces the stalwart 488 Challenge and 488 Challenge EVO, which have defined the grid since the series’ inception in 2019. Now, a new generation of performance and innovation takes the wheel.
A Grid of Experience and Fresh Ambition
Ferrari North Europe has confirmed an impressive 20-driver grid, comprising a blend of returning contenders and fresh talent. The field is split across two competitive classes: Trofeo Pirelli for seasoned racers and Coppa Shell for passionate gentleman drivers and rising stars.
Leading the Trofeo Pirelli charge is Gilbert Yates (Charles Hurst), the reigning 2024 Champion, who returns to defend his crown. He faces a formidable line-up of challengers, including the experienced Pranav Vangala (HR Owen), and promising newcomers Joseph Dean (Stratstone Colchester) and Callum Leathem (Charles Hurst), both of whom are expected to inject youthful pace and fresh dynamics into the series.
The Coppa Shell grid is equally competitive, boasting a rich blend of returning personalities and first-time entrants. Veteran racers such as Darren Howell (JCT600 Leeds), Jonathan Satchell (HR Owen), Steven Dopson, Mike Dewhirst (Dick Lovett Swindon), and Peter Hunter (Stratstone Manchester) will be joined by a trio of familiar names—Paul Dixon (Dick Lovett Swindon), Paul Rogers (HR Owen), and Paul Simmerson (Graypaul Birmingham)—collectively known as the “Three Pauls.” Among the fresh faces is Huseyin Sert (Maranello Sales), making his competitive Ferrari debut in 2025.
Navarra: The First Test of 2025
This weekend’s schedule at Navarra offers a full complement of action. Friday is dedicated to testing, giving drivers a crucial opportunity to adapt to the Spanish circuit and fine-tune their new 296 Challenge machines. On Saturday, free practice and qualifying sessions will set the tone, culminating in Race 1 at 15:30. The weekend concludes with Race 2 at 14:30 on Sunday, following a second round of qualifying in the morning.
Each race follows the 30-minute plus one lap format, a staple of Ferrari Challenge series worldwide, ensuring thrilling sprint-style competition with no room for error.
Fans can follow all the action live online at live.ferrari.com, with coverage providing an exclusive window into one of the most prestigious customer racing platforms in motorsport.
The Road Ahead: A Five-Round European Showcase
After the curtain-raiser in Navarra, the Ferrari Challenge UK returns to home soil for a quintessentially British calendar, with iconic circuits that have shaped the nation’s racing heritage:
| Round | Circuit | Date |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Navarra, Spain | 26–27 April |
| 2 | Oulton Park | 16–17 May |
| 3 | Brands Hatch | 21–22 June |
| 4 | Donington Park | 26–27 July |
| 5 | Silverstone | 05–07 September |
With a mix of technical tracks and high-speed challenges, the 2025 calendar offers the perfect backdrop for the new 296 Challenge to prove its prowess—and for a new champion to rise.
As the series returns with renewed vigour, this season represents more than just a changing of the guard. It’s a celebration of Ferrari’s relentless pursuit of progress, passion, and performance. Whether it’s the roar of engines in Navarra or the drama unfolding at Silverstone’s sweeping corners, Ferrari Challenge UK 2025 promises to be a year to remember.
