Silverstone, Sunday 7 September 2025 – The 2025 Ferrari Challenge UK Trofeo Pirelli series concluded in style this past weekend at Silverstone, with clear skies and warm temperatures providing the perfect backdrop for a season finale brimming with drama, precision, and pure racing excitement. By the end of two intense days on the iconic Northamptonshire circuit, two champions had emerged: Gilbert Yates (Charles Hurst) in the Trofeo Pirelli and Mike Dewhirst (Dick Lovett Swindon) in the Coppa Shell. Ferrari ambassador Toni Vilander was on hand to celebrate the achievements, presenting the trophies in a fittingly glamorous podium ceremony.
Trofeo Pirelli: Yates’ Unstoppable March
For Gilbert Yates, the 2025 season was nothing short of dominant. From the opening round, the Northern Irishman asserted his authority, claiming pole position at every qualifying session and converting nine of his ten race starts into victories. His flawless execution was on full display at Silverstone, where he continued a season-long narrative of precision, composure, and strategic mastery.
In Qualifying 1, Yates set a benchmark lap of 2:01.549, edging out his rivals with characteristic ease. Race 1 saw him translate this pace into a commanding victory, stretching clear at the front as the mid-pack fought an enthralling battle behind him. Notable performances included Fedor Samorukov (HR Owen), who impressively climbed to sixth, and Paul Simmerson (Graypaul Birmingham), whose tactical acumen allowed him to seize third from Oscar Ryndziewicz (Graypaul Glasgow) amid the field reshuffle caused by a yellow flag. For Yates, the win was a coronation: his second consecutive Trofeo Pirelli championship secured in trademark style.
Race 2 mirrored the first in drama and intensity. Early contact at the start forced a red flag, but once the race resumed, Yates’ unerring focus delivered yet another victory. His son, Bradley Yates, made an impressive debut, joining him on the podium and marking a memorable family milestone. By season’s end, Yates had amassed nine wins in a season of near-perfect dominance – a testament to both talent and tenacity.
Coppa Shell: Dewhirst’s Journey to Glory
If Yates’ campaign was defined by dominance, Mike Dewhirst’s 2025 season was a story of perseverance and growth. After narrowly missing the title in 2024, Dewhirst began the year with renewed focus, gradually increasing his pace and confidence. A series of four consecutive victories in the latter half of the season ultimately propelled him to the championship summit.
Qualifying 1 at Silverstone set the tone, with Dewhirst posting a lap of 2:02.742 to secure pole. Race 1 was a tactical showcase: a strong opening from Peter Hunter (Stratstone Manchester) was quickly countered by Dewhirst, who reclaimed the lead with poise. Despite a mid-race yellow flag compressing the field, Dewhirst maintained control, ultimately crossing the line first and clinching his maiden Coppa Shell championship.
The second race presented fresh challenges. Dewhirst faced an early drive-through penalty, dropping him to fourth, yet he demonstrated resilience and strategic brilliance in mounting a late charge. With tire degradation threatening his pace, Dewhirst passed both Darren Howell (JCT600 Leeds) and Paul Rogers (HR Owen) to secure second place behind Hunter, solidifying his status as the 2025 Coppa Shell champion.
Season Highlights and Next Steps
The 2025 season of Ferrari Challenge UK showcased both prodigious talent and thrilling competition, with seasoned stars and newcomers alike providing fans with unforgettable moments. The final weekend at Silverstone exemplified the drama, skill, and sportsmanship that define the series.
Looking ahead, Ferrari has confirmed the 2026 calendar for the Trofeo Pirelli UK series:
- Round 1: Le Castellet, 12–15 March
- Round 2: Snetterton, 2–3 May
- Round 3: Silverstone, 22–24 May
- Round 4: Oulton Park, 26–27 June
- Round 5: Brands Hatch, 24–26 July
- Round 6: Donington, 19–20 September
With such a strong roster of competitors and a calendar spanning some of the UK and Europe’s most iconic circuits, the 2026 season promises even greater intensity and spectacle. For now, though, the spotlight belongs to Gilbert Yates and Mike Dewhirst – two champions whose performances at Silverstone have secured them a lasting place in the annals of the Ferrari Challenge UK.
