Spa-Francorchamps British GT 2025
High expectations lead to more bad luck for Car 88 and Team Mahiki…AGAIN
Ginetta Gamble: Last-Minute Manufacturer Change at Spa
In a dramatic turn of events ahead of the Spa-Francorchamps British GT, Team Mahiki made a late switch to a Ginetta vehicle—just days before track action. For Team Dugganite, it was a return to familiar territory. With a strong pedigree in the Ginetta GT5 and Supercup AM championships, there was quiet confidence in their ability to adapt quickly to the new G56 GT4 EVO platform, despite the exceptionally tight learning window.
Early Test Sessions Hampered by Technical Challenges
Initial testing proved challenging. Due to the condensed preparation time, the first session was not fully utilised, and early laps identified significant steering issues. As the team moved into the final test session of the day, further setup adjustments were trialled, but the core issue persisted—pointing to what appears to be a deeper, long-term steering fault with the vehicle. Credit must go to the entire team, who worked tirelessly in an effort to mitigate the problem and prepare the car for qualifying.
A Difficult Qualifying and Back-Grid Start
In a bid to resolve the steering issues ahead of qualifying, a new component was installed. Unfortunately, this change exacerbated the problem, ultimately rendering the car even more difficult to drive. The session became another missed opportunity in what has become a testing season for Team Dugganite. As a result, they would once again line up at the back of the grid. In contrast, the other Mahiki Ginettas performed strongly—most notably Car 69, which secured a lap record—highlighting the car’s true potential when fully operational.
Race Day at Spa-Francorchamps: Grit in the Face of Adversity
With the updated part failing to deliver improvements, the team reverted to the original steering setup for the race – a strategic decision grounded in pragmatism. The car got off to a clean start, but it quickly became apparent that the steering issues remained. Compounding the challenge, a gearbox fault soon developed, causing problems with gear changes and compromising overall pace. Despite the setbacks, driver Joe Wheeler delivered an impressive stint, maintaining position within the field under increasingly difficult circumstances. Eventually, the car was brought into the pits to prevent potential mechanical failure.
Determination Rewarded: Team Effort Leads to Finish
What followed was a commendable display of teamwork and perseverance. The Car 88 mechanics, supported by Ginetta’s technical staff, worked swiftly to repair the gearbox and address the steering to a drivable state. Their efforts paid off—the car rejoined the race and went on to complete the full 3-hour endurance, salvaging valuable experience and demonstrating the team’s unwavering commitment.
Looking Ahead: The Search for Stability Continues
While the Spa-Francorchamps British GT weekend did not yield the results Team Dugganite hoped for, it showcased the team’s resilience and professionalism in the face of considerable technical adversity. With continued support and a renewed focus on reliability, there’s every reason to believe a turnaround is within reach. The team’s determination has never been in question—now they need a platform that allows them to compete at the sharp end of the grid.
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