In the OK Senior category, the race weekend for several drivers was dramatically compromised by a tyre issue that emerged during the Finals, forcing a number of them to retire early. Among the most notable was Italian driver Martinese, who had put on a stellar comeback drive and looked poised to challenge for the top step of the podium.
Published: 09 April 2025
Columns: Close Up
After a generally positive debut year for the new single tyre supplier, the second season of the FIA Karting three-year exclusive deal hasn’t had the best of starts in Spain.
The warning signs were already there. During the Champions of the Future round—effectively the rehearsal for the European Championship—some drivers had experienced sudden punctures. But few expected the issue to reappear with such impact on the European stage. Unfortunately, it did, turning a full three-day effort into bitter disappointment for several drivers, some of whom were just a few laps away from career-best performances.
Given the prestige still associated with a European Championship event, the high level of commitment from teams, drivers, and support staff—not to mention the substantial financial investment required at this level—the problem can’t simply be brushed off. A swift and lasting solution is now hoped for ahead of the next round in Portimão.
The mood in the paddock wasn’t great. While there’s no questioning the merit of the winners—who absolutely earned their results—there was widespread frustration among those whose races were derailed by a tyre failure. At this level of competition, that’s simply not something you expect.
Here’s how the European Championship tyre allocation works: each driver receives six tyres for Qualifying and the Heats, with an additional four allowed for the Finals. While Campillos is known to have fairly abrasive asphalt, it’s not considered the worst in the calendar. Yet several drivers couldn’t finish the Final due to tyre failures, and others experienced issues immediately after crossing the finish line.
The consensus in the paddock—and reportedly echoed by the tyre manufacturer’s own technicians—is that the failures weren’t caused by pressure (especially since all affected drivers—at least five—were within the recommended range). Nor can the blame be pinned on the drivers, many of whom made a clear effort to manage tyre wear, fully aware of the demands Campillos could place on their tyres.
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The warning signs were already there. During the Champions of the Future round—effectively the rehearsal for the European Championship—some drivers had experienced sudden punctures. But few expected the issue to reappear with such impact on the European stage. Unfortunately, it did, turning a full three-day effort into bitter disappointment for several drivers, some of whom were just a few laps away from career-best performances.
Given the prestige still associated with a European Championship event, the high level of commitment from teams, drivers, and support staff—not to mention the substantial financial investment required at this level—the problem can’t simply be brushed off. A swift and lasting solution is now hoped for ahead of the next round in Portimão.
The mood in the paddock wasn’t great. While there’s no questioning the merit of the winners—who absolutely earned their results—there was widespread frustration among those whose races were derailed by a tyre failure. At this level of competition, that’s simply not something you expect.
Here’s how the European Championship tyre allocation works: each driver receives six tyres for Qualifying and the Heats, with an additional four allowed for the Finals. While Campillos is known to have fairly abrasive asphalt, it’s not considered the worst in the calendar. Yet several drivers couldn’t finish the Final due to tyre failures, and others experienced issues immediately after crossing the finish line.
The consensus in the paddock—and reportedly echoed by the tyre manufacturer’s own technicians—is that the failures weren’t caused by pressure (especially since all affected drivers—at least five—were within the recommended range). Nor can the blame be pinned on the drivers, many of whom made a clear effort to manage tyre wear, fully aware of the demands Campillos could place on their tyres.
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Julia Angelard eighth in the final of the 2nd round of ROK Cup Italia
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A challenging but educational weekend between Campillos, Castelletto, and Anneville
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