Ferrari Challenge Rocks Laguna Seca: Fierce Battles and a Stellar Season Finale!

Dear Drivers, Teammates and fellow Tifosi,

WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, a 2.24-mile masterpiece in Monterey, California, is a motorsport legend, renowned for its iconic Corkscrew turn and a history which includes Ferrari Challenge North America’s inaugural race in the 1994 season. Ferrari’s racing legacy here includes countless memorable performances in sports car racing, with the track’s technical layout perfectly suiting the Prancing Horse’s precision. The Ferrari Challenge North America closed its 2025 season at Round 6 from September 10-14, navigating a rollercoaster of weather. From dense fog and overcast skies early in the week to bright, sunny conditions by race day, conditions demanded adaptability from drivers tackling the circuit’s relentless elevation changes.

Representing Team FCNJ in Laguna Seca this year:

• Michael Mathes in Car #5 – Trofeo Pirelli-AM

• Luis Perusquia in Car #131 – Coppa Shell-AM

• Osvaldo Gaio in Car #193 – Coppa Shell

• Roger Xu in Car #268 – Club Challenge

SATURDAY – RACE 1

In Saturday’s Race 1, the Pirelli-AM class saw Michael Mathes qualify P10, but a mechanical issue forced him out, ending his race early. In Coppa Shell, Osvaldo Gaio started P11 and fought to a P12 finish, showing steady pace. Luis Perusquia, qualifying P12, was unfortunately taken out after a chain-reaction collision, robbing him of a chance to showcase his skill.

SATURDAY – RACE 2

Sunday’s Race 2 brought redemption and heartbreak. Michael Mathes shone in Pirelli-AM, qualifying P3 and surging to P2 on the opening lap with an aggressive drive, only to be sidelined by a last-lap incident that prevented a podium finish. In Coppa Shell, Osvaldo Gaio started P10 and charged to an impressive P6, while Luis Perusquia, from P14, matched that P6 in class with a bold, position-gaining performance, both drivers showcasing tenacity on Laguna’s unforgiving layout.

The 2025 Ferrari Challenge season was a thrilling ride, marked by many wins, podiums, daring passes, and relentless determination from our drivers and the entire Ferrari of Central New Jersey team. From Miami’s heat to Indy’s legacy and Watkins Glen’s hometown cheers, our drivers delivered unforgettable moments. We’re immensely proud of their skill and passion, and equally grateful for our dedicated support team, whose expertise and energy make every race weekend exhilarating. As we close this season, we celebrate the shared journey and look forward to charging into 2026 with the same fire and Ferrari passion. Thank you for being part of our Ferrari family!

Watch our recap video here: https://youtu.be/MtTfA2ENq-I

Watch replays of our races here:

• Saturday – Race 1 (all classes)

• Sunday – Race 2 (all classes)

CBS Sports Network will air the Ferrari Challenge extended highlights show on Sunday, September 21^st at 4:30pm ET with an Encore presentation on Sunday, September 21^st at 11:00pm ET.

As always, Forza Ferrari!