In just a few days the world’s top karting drivers from 50 countries will take part in the second round of the FIA Karting European Championship, taking place from 07 to 10 May 2026 at the Valencia track.
Among the OK Junior drivers there is also a representative of the ORLEN Motorsport Academy, Julia Angelard, who has undergone intensive training during the recently concluded Champions of the Future round.
As the teenage Polish driver emphasises, moving up 10 places in one of the races is a good sign, and the entire team hopes to improve their pace in Valencia.
FIA European Karting Championship for the second time this season attracts top drivers who will be vying for the title of fastest. This time, the venue for the competition will be the Kartodromo Internacional Lucas Guerrero in Valencia – the same place, where the Champions of the Future series, which also featured Julia Angelard, competing in the highly competitive OK Junior category, just concluded..
Fight for the pace
Julia’s participation in the Champions of the Future series is crucial for her future in the FIA Karting European Championship. The opportunity to not only practice on the track but also test the track and the kart’s condition in heavy conditions, which allows her to gain valuable experience before competing in much more important and higher-level competitions.
The past COTF round started relatively well – practice sessions on the Spanish track placed the teenage protégé of the ORLEN Motorsport Academy near the middle of the pack, just 0.57 seconds behind the fastest practice time of all three groups of drivers.
In the first three heats, Julia Angelard gained several positions each time, while in the fourth – on a wet track, after rainy conditions – Julia showed off a phenomenal ride and a pace similar to the rest of the field, moving up 10 places. Despite overtaking another 5 drivers in the last heat, Julia did not qualify for the semi-finals of the competition, but the experience she gained is a valuable lesson for with a round of the European Championships in the coming week.
Julia Angelard: we’ll come back stronger
“We are constantly trying to improve the setup, but the competition is very strong and so far the changes the team has made have proven insufficient. I believe that we will return to the FIA Karting European Championship stronger. A huge thank you to everyone who helped me this week in finding the best possible pace over a single lap,” admits the driver of Minardi Management powered by Dag Ltd.
Julia Angelard’s schedule in Valencia Friday, 08.05.2026
09:10 – Free Practice, gr. 1 (15 minutes)
09:50 – Free Practice, gr. 2 (15 minutes)
10:30 – Free Practice, gr. 3 (15 minutes)
11:54 – Qualifying Practice, gr. 1 (6 minutes)
12:24 – Qualifying Practice, gr. 2 (6 minutes)
12:54 – Qualifying Practice, gr. 3 (6 minutes)
14:55 – Qualifying Heat E-F (9 laps)
15:35 – Qualifying Heat C-D (9 laps)
16:15 – Qualifying Heat A-B (9 laps)
17:20 – Qualifying Heat C-F (9 laps)
18:00 – Qualifying Heat B-D (9 laps)
18:40 – Qualifying Heat A-E (9 laps)
Saturday, 09.05.2026
08:56 – Warm up B-F (8 minutes)
09:22 – Warm up C-E (8 minutes)
09:48 – Warm up A-D (8 minutes)
11:00 – Qualifying Heat B-F (9 laps)
11:40 – Qualifying Heat C-E (9 laps) 12:20 – Qualifying Heat A-D (9 laps)
13:00 – Qualifying Heat B-E (9 laps)
15:17 – Qualifying Heat D-F (9 laps)
15:57 – Qualifying Heat A-C (9 laps)
16:37 – Qualifying Heat D-E (9 laps)
17:17 – Qualifying Heat A-F (9 laps)
17:57 – Qualifying Heat B-C (9 laps)
Sunday, 10.05.2026 09:00 – Warm up, Super Heat A (10 minutes)
09:30 – Warm up, Super Heat B (10 minutes)
10:45 –Super Heat A (11 laps)
11:35 –Super Heat B (11 laps)
14:50 – Final (18 laps)
https://www.minardimanagement.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/JuliaAngelardCOTFWalencja01.jpg19191440Valerio Tinghihttps://www.minardimanagement.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/logo_2026_Orizontale.pngValerio Tinghi2026-05-05 16:17:362026-05-05 16:17:36JULIA ANGELARD HOPES TO IMPROVE HER PACE IN VALENCIA
Kimi Antonelli claims his third consecutive victory, confirming the excellent form already shown with pole position on Saturday. A result that further strengthens his place among the championship’s leading contenders.
Positive signs also for McLaren, which returns to competitiveness by placing both cars on the podium. Second place for Lando Norris—who also won Saturday’s sprint race—and third for his teammate Oscar Piastri.
A more difficult weekend, however, for Scuderia Ferrari. After an excellent qualifying performance, the race turned out negatively, especially for Charles Leclerc, who received a 20-second penalty for repeatedly exceeding track limits.
Also worth noting is the strong performance from Alpine F1 Team, finishing in the points thanks to Franco Colapinto, who delivered a solid and composed race.
DAG’S DRIVER RATINGS
A more eventful race than usual, with a closer gap between the top teams and weather uncertainty adding excitement from the very start. The possibility of rain played a key role, leading to a race full of overtakes—even if not always fully representative of true pace.
The most spectacular moment of the Grand Prix was undoubtedly the spin at the start by Max Verstappen, which immediately shook up the early stages, along with the intense battle among the top three for much of the race. Another major positive note was Antonelli: his potential remains clear, and if he improves his race starts, he could become a serious title contender. His speed has never been in doubt—one of his most distinctive qualities.
MERCEDES – 8
Antonelli delivered an outstanding weekend, earning a 9 thanks to a dominant performance capped by victory and his third consecutive pole position, with the only blemish being the Sprint, where a penalty prevented a better result.
George Russell, on the other hand, had a more subdued outing, scoring a 6 after once again finishing behind his teammate without fully expressing his potential.
MCLAREN – 9
The “papaya” team was among those bringing the most updates to Miami and managed to exploit them effectively, as demonstrated by their results in both the Sprint and the main race.
Norris impressed with an 8.5, securing victory in the Sprint and confirming his competitiveness with a strong second-place finish, while Piastri earned an 8 by reaching the podium and remaining in contention until the end, contributing to a highly positive weekend for the team.
FERRARI – 8
Ferrari showed encouraging signs overall, with Leclerc consistently just behind the McLarens for much of the weekend, delivering a solid and competitive performance that was ultimately compromised by a late-race mistake resulting in a 20-second penalty, leaving him with a rating of 8.
Lewis Hamilton was less prominent, receiving a 7 after a rather anonymous race spent in the midfield without notable highlights, and expectations remain higher for the upcoming rounds.
RED BULL – 8
Red Bull Racing introduced significant upgrades that brought positive signs, allowing the team to reduce the gap to Mercedes and rejoin the fight at the front.
Verstappen once again demonstrated his class with an 8, managing race situations effectively and avoiding potential incidents, while Isack Hadjar endured a difficult weekend, earning a 5 after struggling to make an impact.
ALPINE – 8
It was the first truly convincing weekend for both drivers, with Pierre Gasly standing out in the Sprint and Colapinto excelling in the main race, marking his best performance of the season and providing a strong boost of confidence for the team.
WILLIAMS – 7
Williams Racing enjoyed an important weekend by returning to the points after a difficult period, confirming a clear improvement in overall competitiveness.
Both Alexander Albon and Carlos Sainz Jr. earned a 7 thanks to solid, error-free performances that could mark a turning point in their season.
HAAS – 7
Haas F1 Team delivered a generally positive, if not perfect, weekend, continuing to show encouraging progress.
Oliver Bearman impressed with a consistent drive near the points (7), while Esteban Ocon scored a 6.5, showing room for improvement.
CADILLAC – 6
The Cadillac Formula One Team showed its first positive signs of the season by completing the race and avoiding last place, marking a step forward in reliability and race management.
Valtteri Bottas struggled to find pace, while Sergio Pérez appeared more competitive and determined than in previous weekends.
RACING BULLS – 5
It was a difficult weekend overall, with few positives for the team, although Arvid Lindblad showed promise with a solid recovery drive, while Liam Lawson struggled in the lower positions.
AUDI – 5
Audi F1 Team endured another tough weekend, confirming its struggles.
Gabriel Bortoleto showed commitment (6), while Nico Hülkenberg had a disappointing race.
ASTON MARTIN – 5
Aston Martin F1 Team continues to face difficulties, although both cars reached the finish line.
Fernando Alonso fought hard for a 6.5 despite an uncompetitive car, while Lance Stroll earned a 6 in a race mainly useful for gathering mileage, with the team already appearing focused on next season in search of improvement.
Author: Gabriele Bovio
https://www.minardimanagement.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/antonelli-1024x569-1.jpg5691024Valerio Tinghihttps://www.minardimanagement.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/logo_2026_Orizontale.pngValerio Tinghi2026-05-05 15:25:172026-05-05 15:26:50ANTONELLI TRIUMPHS IN MIAMI AHEAD OF THE TWO MCLARENS, FERRARI NEED A REVIEW
Another intense race weekend saw our drivers competing on circuits across Europe, taking on high-level competitions in increasingly competitive environments.
In Valencia, Round 2 of the Champions of the Future took place, while in the karting world Broodi competed in the TVKC Club Champs against a strong international field. At the same time, Vanessa returned to Germany for another round of the ADAC DKM, continuing her development in one of the most competitive championships.
In Italy, at Franciacorta, Mia Zanki fought hard in the ROK Cup Italy, confirming her determination and desire to stand out. Finally, Silkunas made his debut in closed-wheel racing in Riga, Latvia, gaining new experience and further expanding his technical skills. A weekend full of commitments, challenges, and positive signs, confirming the steady growth of our drivers on multiple fronts.
Westwood – P59 – Champions Of The Future – Round 2, OK-J
A challenging weekend for Benjamin Westwood, who struggled from the start with a difficult qualifying session that inevitably affected his starting positions in the heats. A tough beginning made the weekend even more demanding, especially with the changing weather conditions throughout the event.
Despite the difficulties, Benjamin showed great determination and maturity, managing to secure a place in the Super Heat. A strong display of character, even if it wasn’t enough to complete the comeback and reach the final. Nevertheless, it was a weekend that highlighted his fighting spirit. Focus now shifts to the next Valencia round, where he will return even more determined to prove his full potential.
Zhu – P63 – Champions Of The Future – Round 2, OK-J
Zack Zhu returned to the track in a far-from-easy weekend, starting with a challenging qualifying session where he placed 17th. However, he reacted with determination in the heats, gaining several positions lap after lap and showing strong race pace.
He reached the Super Heat, but adverse weather conditions reshuffled the cards. Rain made the track extremely tricky, and unfortunately Zack lost control of the kart, missing out on a place in the final. A bitter ending, but one that doesn’t overshadow the positive signs shown. Zack leaves Valencia motivated and aware of his competitiveness.
Noeppel – P76 – Champions Of The Future – Round 2, OK-J
Maxime Noeppe impressed despite a difficult qualifying session. Starting from the back, he fought hard in every heat, gaining positions and standing out for his overtakes and racing attitude. Although he didn’t reach the Super Heat or the final, the performance goes beyond the numbers. At this stage, the focus is on growth, experience, and improving race management.
Maxime demonstrated commitment, resilience, and a strong mindset oriented toward continuous improvement.
Kosmopoulos – P93 – Champions Of The Future – Round 2, OK-J
A difficult weekend for Jason, who couldn’t find the right rhythm and failed to progress to the final stages. Some sessions ended prematurely, making things even more challenging.
Despite the struggles, these experiences are part of a driver’s development. There are important lessons to take forward, and we are confident Jason will bounce back stronger.
Angelard – P83 – Champions Of The Future – Round 2, OK-J
After a difficult qualifying, Julia reacted strongly in the heats, gaining up to ten positions in one race and showing great fighting spirit.
She completed all sessions consistently, demonstrating determination and resilience, even if she couldn’t fully capitalize on the available equipment.
Her attitude and competitiveness are very promising for the future.
Gallo – P75 – Champions Of The Future – Round 2, OK
Matteo Gallo stood out among the senior drivers. Despite limited experience in the category, he showed determination and steady progress. He approached each session with the right mindset, finishing races consistently and demonstrating maturity and potential.
With continued experience, Matteo has all the ingredients to become a strong contender.
Salamonde – P80 – Champions Of The Future – Round 2, OK
A demanding weekend for Eduardo, who was involved in several on-track battles, including a significant incident—fortunately without injury.
Despite the challenges, he kept fighting and showed strong character. With more experience, his performances are expected to improve steadily.
Kosmopoulou – P64 – Champions Of The Future – Round 2, OK
Nefeli started well from qualifying (P20) and built a solid progression throughout the weekend. She consistently completed all sessions and reached the Super Heat, where she continued gaining positions, though narrowly missing the final.
Her steady growth and focused approach highlight strong potential for the future.
Ivannikov – P11 – Champions Of The Future – Round 2, OK
A mixed weekend for Vladimir. After a strong qualifying (P9), he confirmed his pace in the heats, including a win and a third-place finish. However, a difficult Super Heat compromised his final chances. In the final, he delivered an impressive comeback, gaining nine positions to finish P11.
Despite some bad luck, his speed, determination, and resilience stand out.
Cooper Dowling – P27 – TVKC Club Champs Round 2
Broodi Cooper competed in a highly competitive international field at the TVKC Club Champs. Despite some difficulties, he completed the race in P27, gaining valuable experience that will support his development in future events.
Zanki – P21 – ROK Cup Italy, Franciacorta – OK-J
A tough weekend for Mia, affected by illness that limited her preparation and track time. Despite this, she delivered a strong qualifying (P9) and fought hard in the race, gaining nine positions before finishing P21.
A performance that goes beyond the result, highlighting her resilience and determination.
Silkunaite – P12 – ADAC DKM, Mülsen
Second preparation race for Vanesa in Mülsen. She showed clear progress and growing confidence, maintaining a solid pace and finishing P12. A valuable experience that contributes to her ongoing development.
Silkunas – BMW Turbo, Riga Race 1: P3 Race 2 (2h): P1 in BMW Turbo Cup (P6 overall)
Markas made his debut in closed-wheel racing in Riga, driving a BMW, and immediately impressed. He adapted quickly to the new car, securing P3 in Race 1 and winning his category in the endurance race, finishing P6 overall.
A strong performance that confirms his versatility and potential across different racing disciplines.
Author: Gabriele Bovio
https://www.minardimanagement.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/WhatsApp-Image-2026-05-04-at-18.57.28.jpeg1280853Valerio Tinghihttps://www.minardimanagement.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/logo_2026_Orizontale.pngValerio Tinghi2026-05-04 19:04:252026-05-04 19:07:21FROM KARTING TO TOURING CARS: A WEEKEND OF GROWTH AND PODIUMS FOR OUR DRIVERS
Brazilian driver faces challenges in Spain, shows strong recovery pace and remains motivated for the next round of the European Karting Championship
The Valencia circuit in Spain hosted the second round of the 2026 Champions of the Future, bringing together some of the top names in world karting on one of the most technical layouts of the calendar. Representing Brazil, São Paulo’s Dudu Salamonde (Minardi Management powered by DAG / EXA Tecnologia / Vero Coco / DKR / RL Eng. Design / Casa Barô / SOMA Blindados / Team: Parolin Racing / Coach: Gianluca Beggio) took on the challenge at the Kartódromo Lucas Guerrero, competing in the OK category.
Throughout the weekend, Dudu shared the track with 87 other drivers in his category, all fighting for a spot in the event’s final phase. In an extremely competitive and balanced grid, every detail proved crucial, demanding not only technical performance but also strong mental control and the ability to adapt to adverse situations.
Even before the racing action began, Salamonde showed confidence following his practice sessions at the Spanish circuit. Comfortable with the layout and pleased with his initial pace, the driver highlighted the positive atmosphere within the team. “I’m coming in with really good expectations. The practice sessions were great, I felt comfortable on track, so I think we can fight well throughout the weekend,” he said.
In qualifying, the Brazilian clocked a time of 53.575 seconds, securing his position in Group E of the OK category. The lap demonstrated consistency against a large and competitive field, keeping him in contention for solid positions in the qualifying heats.
The first qualifying heat brought encouraging signs. In an 11-lap race around the Lucas Guerrero circuit, Dudu showed aggression and strong racecraft, gaining four positions over the course of the heat. The performance reinforced his potential to move forward throughout the event.
However, the second heat brought a decisive and unexpected setback. While recovering positions, Salamonde was caught out by a rival spinning ahead of him. With no room or time to react, the Brazilian was involved in the incident and was forced to retire, compromising his chances for the remainder of the weekend.
Following the impact of that result, the team had to react quickly. In the next two qualifying heats, Dudu returned to the track with a revised kart setup, aiming to regain balance and competitiveness. Despite the efforts, both races proved challenging, and he finished towards the back of the field.
Despite the difficulties, Salamonde refused to give up. In the final heat, he delivered one of the standout recovery drives of the weekend. With determination and consistent pace, he executed ten overtakes, crossing the finish line in 16th place — an impressive result, although not enough to secure a spot in the qualifying positions for the final phase.
After the races, the driver reflected on his performance and highlighted the lessons learned. “It was a shame about the crash in the second heat. From that point on, we had to change quite a lot on the kart and it became more difficult. I only really managed to recover in the last heat, but it was a very important learning experience for the European Championship,” Salamonde evaluated.
Although he did not secure a place in the final phase, the overall outcome of the weekend is seen positively by the team. The experience gained under challenging conditions contributes to Dudu Salamonde’s development, as he continues to evolve in one of the most competitive environments in international karting.
Dudu remains in Valencia, where he has already begun preparations for the second round of the European Karting Championship. On-track activities at the Kartódromo Lucas Guerrero begin next Thursday (7), and the Brazilian arrives even more motivated to turn recent challenges into stronger performances as the season progresses.
Press Office: Kako Marques / KMCom
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The driver will take part this weekend in the first round of the Endurance series of the Italian Gran Turismo Championship
From May 8th to 10th, we will see the young Mattia Bucci return to the track at Misano: still competing for the DL Racing team with the number 163 Lamborghini, in the Endurance stages he will share the cockpit with Pietro Agoglia, his teammate also in the Sprint, and Alessandro Cremona.
“We’re finally back on track for the opening round of the Endurance series. I can’t wait to get out there and give it my all, especially after the Imola weekend, which didn’t allow us to show our full potential. I have a great bond with Pietro, and I’m sure it will be the same with Alessandro,” said Mattia. The wait is over, and the trio is ready: this new adventure will begin on Friday.
The three free practice sessions will be held on Friday at 11:05 AM and 4:05 PM, and finally on Saturday at 9:20 AM. Qualifying will take place at 6:25 PM, 7:05 PM, and 7:45 PM. The race will take place at 2:50 PM on Sunday. The events will be available to follow on the official Aci Sport channel (http://www.youtube.com/@ACISportTVofficial), on Sky channel 228, and on Tivùsat channel 52.
Mattia invites you to stay connected and follow him in this new chapter through his, Minardi Management, team, and championship social media pages:
Instagram: @mattiabucci_official; Facebook: Mattia Bucci – Racing Driver
Instagram: @cigranturismo; Facebook: Campionato Italiano Gran Turismo
The press officer, Federica Moccia
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The driver from Abruzzo concluded his first race weekend with a hillclimb
The first ACI Sport race weekend was held from April 24th to 26th, where the young driver from Pescara inaugurated the 2026 season in the Italian Gran Turismo Sprint Championship, with some purely uphill days.
With the second free practice session interrupted, Mattia Bucci and his teammate Pietro Agoglia were unable to participate in qualifying due to a technical issue, relegating them to the last position on the grid, forty- sixth. Thanks to the hard work of the DL Racing team mechanics, the two were able to take to the track for the first race at the last minute, the true heroes of the day. Mattia was the driver who started the race, starting from the pit lane. In his 25-minute stint, he managed 17 overtakes, finishing thirteenth in the class. At the driver change, Pietro Agoglia took control of the Lamborghini number 163 and finished the race in eleventh place in the PRO-AM category. Pietro Agoglia started Race 2, but unfortunately, he was involved in an accident before the third turn.
Thus ends the first race weekend for the two drivers, who, however, do not lose sight of their goal: analyzing the micro-sectors of free practice and the races, they note potential, which they hope to exploit in the next round of the championship. The wait for Misano, in fact, is short: in just two weeks (May 8th to 10th), the first CIGT Endurance race weekend will take place.
“It was a truly uphill weekend. We weren’t able to get any good laps in free practice on Friday due to the heavy traffic we encountered. On Saturday, a technical problem, which almost lasted until Race 1, prevented us from taking to the track for qualifying, and only thanks to the guys on the team were we able to take part in the first race. We had made up a lot of positions and knew we had to mount an aggressive comeback on Sunday, but unfortunately, fate didn’t work out for us,” said Mattia. “But now we’re moving on and focusing on Misano.”
The three free practice sessions will be held on Friday at 11:05 AM and 4:05 PM, and finally on Saturday at 9:20 AM. Qualifying will take place at 6:25 PM, 7:05 PM, and 7:45 PM. The race will take place at 2:50 PM on Sunday. The events will be available to follow on the official Aci Sport channel (http://www.youtube.com/@ACISportTVofficial), on Sky channel 228, and on Tivùsat channel 52.
Mattia invites you to stay connected and follow him in this new chapter through his, Minardi Management, team, and championship social media pages:
Instagram: @mattiabucci_official; Facebook: Mattia Bucci – Racing Driver
Instagram: @minardi_management; Facebook: Minardi Management
Instagram: @mattiabucci_fanclub
Instagram: @dlracing.official
Instagram: @cigranturismo; Facebook: Campionato Italiano Gran Turismo
The press officer, Federica Moccia
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Miguel Maria Garcia has never taken the conventional path. Born in Asunción, Paraguay, he left his country at fourteen to pursue motorsport in the United States. He claimed outright wins in Paraguay’s national rally series, became the first Paraguayan driver in the history of TC2000 and Super TC2000 in Argentina, made his GT3 debut in Italy with Imperiale Racing during an eruption of Mount Etna, and came within three months of lining up on the Indy NXT grid before the programme collapsed. Now, under the management of DAG Management (Minardi Management), he is at Imola for pre-season testing ahead of the 2026 Italian GT Championship. This is his story — and it does not look like anyone else’s.
An underground car park, a kart, and a stand to fill
There is a place in Asunción — a street food stall, one of those that never change, that existed before you were born and will probably outlast everyone reading this. Miguel and his friends have been going there since they were children. The people who work there know he races. Some of them wear his merchandise. It is a small detail in the arc of a driver who has competed across five countries and three continents, and yet it is the first thing Miguel Maria Garcia mentions when asked where he feels at home. Not a circuit. Not a paddock. A street food stall in Asunción, Paraguay.
When he answered our questions, Miguel was at Imola for pre-season testing ahead of the 2026 Italian GT Championship. Working through the car sector by sector, finding his references, building a relationship with a machine he will need to know by heart before October. A normal day, for someone who has made this sport his life. An extraordinary one, if you trace back the thread that brought a kid from Asunción to this point.
The kart in the car park
Motorsport in the Garcia family is not a metaphor — it is a number. Seven brothers and cousins compete, or have competed, in Paraguay’s National Rally Championship in RC2 class — the same FIA Rally 2-specification cars used in the WRC2. His father and uncles were not exactly enthusiastic about the idea of the kids getting into racing: “But over time, one way or another, everyone found a way to make it happen.” The family business is transport and logistics, and Miguel grew up between the office and the workshop. As a child, he rode dirt bikes on his father’s office grounds. In January 2003, during a summer holiday in Brazil, his father took him to try a rental kart. There is still a photograph. From that day on, he recalls, he talked about almost nothing else.
But the founding moment — the one from which everything else flows — came at Easter 2004. Miguel accompanied his parents on a work trip to Buenos Aires. On the last day before flying home, his father took him down to the hotel’s underground car park. Waiting there was a Cadet kart, with a ribbon. A gift.
“From that specific day, my life changed forever. I still have that kart.”
That is the origin story. Not a Ferrari on television. Not a poster on a bedroom wall. A hotel car park in Buenos Aires, a kart, and a father who understood something before anyone else did.
Fourteen years old, a suitcase, and the USA
At fourteen, Miguel wanted to race in the WSK — the European karting circuit that produces Formula 1 drivers. Budget was the first problem. The second was convincing his parents that he would need to move abroad, live in a workshop, and drive 365 days a year. “An absolute no.” But in January 2015, he secured his first race seat in America, with Ginetta USA in the G40 Cup. The debut went brilliantly, and from that point it gradually became easier to make the case for staying. Tests in Formula 3 machinery and the Road to Indy followed, alongside stints in Formula Atlantic: a non-linear path, built without the scaffolding of a junior academy.
This matters for understanding the kind of driver Miguel has become. He is one of the few active competitors to have raced professionally on tarmac and gravel, in single-seaters and GT cars, across three continents. A versatility that is not superficiality, but depth built layer by layer.
“Rally teaches you the pure driving part of motorsport — driving with broken aero, understanding car physics over crests and jumps, even doing roadside repairs on liaison stages when necessary. It was said that Loeb in the WTCC was always able to run less downforce than his teammates because he was so comfortable with a sliding car. Interesting when you think about it.”
TC2000 and the Argentine Education
In 2022, Miguel made history. He entered the TC2000 and Super TC2000 in Argentina — championships with the kind of television reach that rivals major European series. No Paraguayan driver had ever competed in either before him. It was not a record he chased for the sake of it: it was simply what happened when a driver from Asunción decided to bring his candidacy to the most competitive paddock on the continent.
TC2000 is brutal. Wheel-to-wheel contact is not the exception — it is the grammar of the racing. Miguel arrived with a background in American single-seaters, where respecting track position is part of the unwritten code. The transition could have been traumatic. It was not, partly because of Javier Ciabattari — an engineer who had worked with José María “Pechito” López and with whom Miguel built an immediate understanding.
“He taught me how to really drive — no nonsense, but pushing me hard at the same time. He is known for being quite a character and we clicked perfectly together.”
Then there was Franco Vivian — now a General Motors factory driver in Super TC2000 — who during aero development tests on the Citroën C4 Lounge shared an amount of technical knowledge that Miguel describes as invaluable. In his fourth race weekend, Miguel won. Social media exploded. Factory team principals started acknowledging him.
“It was a before and after.”
He closed the season with a pole position and five combined podiums across the two series. For an absolute debutant in a championship that violent, it was not a result — it was a statement.
A Volcano, a Lamborghini, and a baptism of fire
Miguel Maria Garcia – Minardi Management powered by DAG Management and Consulting
Photo: Sciarra Gianluca Fotospeedy
In 2023, Miguel brought his CV to Europe and signed with Imperiale Racing for the Italian GT Championship Endurance series. The car was a Lamborghini Huracán GT3 Evo; the crew was Jack Bartholomew and Mahaveer Raghunathan — an Englishman, an Indian and a Paraguayan in an Italian car. The first race was at Pergusa, in Sicily: a near-oval layout with no real equivalent on the European calendar. But what made that weekend truly unforgettable was not the track. During the race, Etna erupted. Then a near-cyclonic storm broke.
“A baptism of fire in the most literal sense. The only approach was step by step: data and cameras after every outing, and bouncing as many ideas as I could off my more experienced co-drivers. We managed to bring it home in P6.”
The 2023 season ended with two podiums on his absolute GT3 debut, racing against drivers with years in the category. Imperiale Racing is, in his words, “a world-class outfit, with world-class personnel.”
The hit and the bounce: from burgers to a rally car
In November 2024 came the moment that had been building for years. Juncos Hollinger Racing announced Miguel as their Indy NXT 2025 driver, car No. 75, the first Paraguayan in the team’s history. Ricardo Juncos — Argentine, founder of one of North American single-seater racing’s reference teams — had believed in him. Three months later, JHR suspended its Indy NXT programme to focus on IndyCar. Miguel was without a seat. On this chapter, he chooses his words with care:
“This is a matter I cannot comment on for now. What I can say is that all of Paraguay should consider Ricardo Juncos an idol for the opportunity he gave me. I will be grateful to him forever. If life ever brings our paths together again at a racetrack, I am sure we can write history together.”
What happens next is the story Miguel tells with the widest smile. Hyundai Paraguay reached out — or more precisely, he went to cook burgers for the company’s owner. An evening among friends, conversations about life and racing, the discovery that Hyundai was looking to expand its motorsport portfolio. Miguel already had outright victories in the national rally championship and the fastest stage times on record.
“I went to cook burgers and left with a race seat.”
In 2025, he became the second driver for the official Hyundai Motorsport customer racing team in Paraguay’s National Rally Championship, in a Hyundai i20 N Rally 2 — RC2 specification, the same homologation used in the WRC2. An opportunity built from one evening, a brother who made the introduction, a business partner who vouched for him. Life works in mysterious ways. And he has never let a moment go to waste.
The Paraguay that is looking forward
Miguel Maria Garcia – Minardi Management powered by DAG Management and Consulting
Photo: Sciarra Gianluca Fotospeedy
Miguel is not alone in this. Joshua Dürksen — the other significant Paraguayan driver of his generation — followed the path from F4 through Formula Regional to Formula 2, where he won in 2024. The two share the same primary sponsor, Ueno Bank, and have supported each other long before that coincidence.
“I truly hope the day comes when Joshua steps onto the Formula 1 podium and we hear the Paraguayan national anthem on the world broadcast. It will make me cry with joy — without any doubt.”
In the meantime, Miguel keeps his door open to whoever comes after him. Young drivers in Paraguay are increasingly interested in circuit racing, not just rally. He makes himself available to help them, to make this kind of career feel more normal in his country. There is a statistic he mentions almost quietly, as if it were a private note rather than a public claim:
“In every discipline I have ever competed in, on every continent, I have taken at least one pole position, one podium, or one victory — touring cars, GT, single-seaters, rally, tarmac and gravel. I consider myself part of the group of people who do things, not just talk about them.”
Imola today, Interlagos tomorrow
The future Miguel pictures — the real one, not the press release version — is clear. The FIA World Endurance Championship.
“I have a soft spot for the red cars. I won’t hide it.”
Ferrari. Le Mans. WEC. And then one image that says everything more precisely than any formal statement of intent:
“I know we will fill an entire grandstand at Interlagos with Paraguayan flags, thanks to the proximity. I know it.”
From an underground hotel car park in Buenos Aires, with a Cadet kart as an Easter gift, to Imola in preparation for a season. Through gravel and tarmac, an erupting volcano, a plate of burgers and a handshake. Miguel Maria Garcia‘s story does not look like anyone else’s. And it is only halfway through.
Author: Francesco Svelto
https://www.minardimanagement.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/garcia-intervista-IT.png13652049Valerio Tinghihttps://www.minardimanagement.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/logo_2026_Orizontale.pngValerio Tinghi2026-04-28 18:51:062026-04-28 18:52:06MIGUEL MARIA GARCIA: PARAGUAY TO ITALIAN GT RACING
Brazilian driver targets strong result on his debut at Kartódromo Lucas Guerrero in Valencia.
Amid a season of new horizons, Brazilian driver Dudu Salamonde (Minardi Management powered by DAG / EXA Tecnologia / Vero Coco / DKR / RL Eng. Design / Casa Barô / SOMA Blindados / Team: Parolin Racing / Coach: Gianluca Beggio) takes on another important chapter in his European karting career. After being announced as a member of Minardi Management powered by DAG, the Brazilian has arrived in Spain for the second round of the Champions Of The Future, set to take place at Kartódromo Internacional Lucas Guerrero, in Valencia.
Experiencing a period of growth and maturity on track, Salamonde arrives motivated to represent Brazil in another round of one of the most competitive championships in karting. Racing with Parolin Racing since the beginning of the season, the driver now adds the support of Minardi Management powered by DAG to his journey—an organization widely recognized for developing talent and boosting careers in European motorsport.
The Lucas Guerrero circuit will be a new challenge for the Brazilian, adding an extra layer of difficulty to the event. Even so, Salamonde approaches his debut at the Spanish venue with confidence and a strong fighting spirit—traits that have defined his path so far. Adapting quickly to new tracks has been a key part of his development throughout this European campaign.
“The track is really nice, I didn’t know it before—just like most of the circuits I’ll be racing on here in Europe from now on. I hope this week will be very positive, with a lot of learning and progression. On Wednesday I want to have strong practice sessions, and on Thursday the Heats begin. We’re fully focused and determined to have another good week.” — Dudu Salamonde
To be fully prepared for the round, the Brazilian driver has been in Spain for the past two weeks, intensifying his testing programme. Alongside Parolin Racing, Salamonde has been working on fine-tuning the kart setup, aiming to extract maximum performance in a highly demanding and competitive environment. This joint effort has been essential in building confidence ahead of the race weekend.
During the test sessions at the circuit, the results have already shown positive signs of the driver’s progress. After an initial phase focused on adaptation, Dudu quickly improved his understanding of the layout and the kart setup, posting lap times among the fastest on track. This consistent evolution boosts expectations for a strong performance throughout the week.
“The tests were very good. The first day was mainly about adapting to the track, and on the second day we managed to put together some strong lap times, inside the Top 5. We improved a lot, and the feedback from my team was very positive. That’s why I believe this week is going to be great.” — Dudu Salamonde
SCHEDULE — Champions Of The Future Round 2
Wednesday, April 29: Free Practice Sessions
Thursday, April 30: Qualifying + First Qualifying Heats
Friday, May 1: Remaining Qualifying Heats / Super Heat qualification
Saturday, May 2: Super Heat + Grand Final
The decisive races will be broadcast live on the official Champions Of The Future YouTube channel, directly from Kartódromo Internacional Lucas Guerrero. It will be another opportunity for fans to follow closely the journey of Dudu Salamonde, who remains determined to turn challenges into progress and to write a new chapter in his international karting career.
MEDIA CONTACT
Kako Marques | KMCom Press Office
Follow Dudu Salamonde on Instagram: @eduardosalamonde
https://www.minardimanagement.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/464918_1200324_n5n_6006_web_.jpg6821024Valerio Tinghihttps://www.minardimanagement.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/logo_2026_Orizontale.pngValerio Tinghi2026-04-28 18:44:422026-04-28 18:45:02DUDU SALAMONDE FACES NEW CHALLENGE IN SPAIN AT CHAMPIONS OF THE FUTURE
A busy race weekend on multiple fronts for DAG Management, with its drivers competing across different categories and championships. On the karting side, Tariq Soofi and Mia Zanki took to the track in Lonato for the Italian Championship, facing a demanding weekend full of valuable lessons and positive takeaways for the rest of the season. Also in karting, Vanesa Silkunaite completed a strong weekend in Germany, confirming her excellent form and continuous progress. Meanwhile, Maxime Noeppel was involved in close battles in the FFSA.Switching to single-seaters, Milla Sjöstrand returned to the track in Formula 4 Nordic, where she showed great speed and talent despite some technical issues, still delivering very encouraging signs. Finally, Imola hosted the opening round of the Italian GT Sprint Championship, where Miguel Garcia and Mattia Bucci delivered a solid and competitive debut, with strong results, comebacks, and plenty of potential on display.
Tariq Soofi – P67 – ACI Karting Italian Championship, Lonato (Italy), Mini GR3 Category
Tariq Soofi returned to the track for his debut in the ACI Italian Championship in Lonato. The young Bahraini driver faced several challenges throughout the weekend but never lost his determination. Lap after lap, he continued to fight with grit, showing character, resilience, and a strong desire to improve.
Despite the difficulties, this experience represents an important step in his career, helping him gain experience, better understand the competition, and identify areas for improvement. Tariq will now return to Bahrain, where he will take time to recover, train consistently, and prepare for upcoming commitments. This period will be crucial to work on both his physical and mental condition, with the goal of coming back after the summer stronger, more motivated, and ready to achieve results that match his potential.
Mia Zanki – P23 – ACI Karting Italian Championship, Lonato (Italy), OKJN Category
Also competing in the Italian Championship, Mia Zanki faced this competition and her new category for the first time with great determination and adaptability. Overall, her debut proved positive and full of important lessons. Although she did not qualify for the final due to several technical issues that prevented her from scoring enough points to access the last session, Mia showed character and a strong will to improve, never letting difficulties discourage her.
This first experience represents a key step in her development. Every session allowed her to gain experience, become more familiar with the category, and better understand the dynamics of the championship. The road ahead is still long, but the foundations are solid and her potential is clear. Despite the setbacks, this debut remains a very encouraging starting point for her sporting future.
Miguel Maria Garcia – ACI Italian GT Sprint Championship, Imola (Italy), GT3 Category Race 1: P6
Race 2: P7
Season debut in Imola for Miguel Garcia in the Italian GT Sprint Championship. He started the weekend with a solid qualifying session, securing P5 in the Pro-Am category and immediately showing strong pace. In Race 1, he confirmed his performance with a clean and consistent drive to finish P6. In Race 2, Miguel and his team maintained a competitive level, crossing the line in P7 and collecting more valuable points for the standings.
Overall, this was a very positive debut, highlighting consistency, growth, and a strong connection with both the car and the team. The points scored provide a solid foundation for the season. If this trajectory continues, Miguel can certainly aim for even stronger results, with podium finishes looking like a realistic goal.
Mattia Bucci – ACI Italian GT Sprint Championship, Imola (Italy), GT Cup Category Race 1: P11
Race 2: DNF
Season debut as well for Mattia Bucci in the Italian GT Sprint Championship. The weekend started with a P13 in qualifying in the Pro-Am category, but a gravel excursion caused damage to the car, complicating his debut. The team played a crucial role, as the mechanics worked quickly and professionally to repair the car in record time, allowing Mattia and his teammate to race, albeit starting from the back of the grid.
In Race 1, they delivered an outstanding comeback, gaining around 27 positions to finish P11, narrowly missing out on the top 10 after a very strong performance. Race 2, however, was affected by an accident that forced them to retire early, preventing them from confirming their pace. Despite the challenges, the overall balance of the weekend remains positive. Speed, resilience, and strong teamwork are encouraging signs for the rest of the season. Attention now turns to the next round at Misano, where Mattia will aim to convert this potential into concrete results.
Maxime Noeppel – P27 – FFSA Academy Junior Championship, Essay (France), Junior Category
A race weekend as well for Maxime, competing in the second round of the FFSA Academy Junior Championship in Essay, France. It was not an easy weekend for the young French driver, who faced several difficulties but never stopped giving his all on track. Despite the challenges, Maxime completed the competition in P27, showing determination and a fighting spirit until the end. While the result may feel disappointing, it still represents an important opportunity for growth and learning.
Every race adds experience, and even difficult moments help build the foundation for improvement. Maxime is already looking ahead with motivation and a desire to bounce back. The next round in Valencia will be the perfect opportunity to return stronger and aim for better results.
Milla Sjöstrand – DSQ – Formula Nordic 4, Padborg (Denmark)
Season debut in Formula Nordic 4 for Milla at Padborg, Denmark. The young driver delivered a very impressive weekend despite several technical issues throughout the sessions. After qualifying P10, Milla made a significant step forward in the race, showcasing her talent and determination to secure an outstanding P5, along with a podium in the rookie category. Unfortunately, due to a technical irregularity, the result was later annulled with a disqualification that erased her on-track achievement.
A bitter ending that does not take away from her high-level performance throughout the weekend. Notably, Milla had not driven a Formula 4 car for about a year. Despite this, she immediately demonstrated speed, adaptability, and a natural ability to stand out. Beyond the official result, it remains an extremely positive performance that highlights her great potential and promising prospects for the rest of the season.
Vanesa Silkunaite – P12 – ADAC Kart Masters, Mülsen (Germany), OK-N Category
The final driver on track over the weekend was Vanesa Silkunaite, competing in the ADAC Kart Masters in Mülsen, Germany. For the Lithuanian driver, it was a preparation-focused weekend approached with great concentration and a mindset for growth.
Despite the main goal being to gain experience and work on details, Vanesa still secured a solid P12, showing consistency and a good level of competitiveness throughout the weekend.
Her progression continues race after race. Vanesa is steadily building her path, improving in every aspect and confirming herself as one of the most in-form drivers at the moment. A positive result that brings confidence and provides a strong foundation for future events.
Author: Gabriele Bovio
https://www.minardimanagement.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/WhatsApp-Image-2026-04-27-at-20.05.35.jpeg10671600Valerio Tinghihttps://www.minardimanagement.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/logo_2026_Orizontale.pngValerio Tinghi2026-04-28 10:32:152026-04-28 10:33:39SEASON DEBUT FOR SJÖSTRAND, BUCCI AND GARCIA A WEEKEND OF GROWTH FOR KART DRIVERS IN LONATO, MÜLSEN AND ESSAY
After a short break from track competition, Julia Angelard heads to Valencia to compete alongside Europe’s top riders. The Polish teenager will compete in the second round of Champions of the Future, followed by a week ofLater -the next stage of the FIA Karting European Championship.
As the Polish competitor admits, the field is strong and numerous, but she is very familiar with the track.
After a short break from competition, karting drivers are returning to action in Europe’s most important racing series. In just a few days, from April 29th to May 2nd, 2026, the second round of the Champions of the Future Euro Series will take place, preceding the FIA European Karting Championship. Among the 101 OK Junior drivers registered for the event, also a protégé of the ORLEN Motorsport Academy, Julia Angelard is taking part in the competition. The teenage Polish driver – even though it’s only the end of April – already has eight full racing weekends behind her, and the upcoming competitions will be her 9th and 10th chance to fight for good results and an opportunity for further development.
To conquer Valencia
After a round at the Italian circuit La Conca in Muro Leccese, this time the European karting elite will be in Spain, or more precisely, Valencia. There, at the Kartodromo Internacional Lucas Guerrero, we’ll once again be battling for the best results. This karting track is well-known to the 14-year-old Pole: she competed there both last year and this year as part of the Champions of the Future Academy series.
As with the previous round at La Conca, after the qualifying session, the drivers will be divided into numerous groups where they will compete in qualifying heats. The top 72 riders will then advance to two Superheats to compete for additional points, giving them a chance to start in the final heat, which will be limited to just 36 drivers from the whole world. Interestingly, Julia Angelard is one of only two girls in the 101-person field of the OK Junior category.
Julia Angelard: we’ll see what the weekend brings
“The Valencia track is no stranger to me – I’ve already raced there this season and know its ropes, which is a definite plus before the race weekend. I hope the upcoming round will be good preparation for me to fight for the best possible result a week later, in the FIA Karting European Championship. The field is not only numerous, but also strong – we’ll see what the weekend brings,” admits the driver of Minardi Management powered by Dag Ltd.
Julia Angelard’s schedule in Valencia
Thursday, 30.04.2026
09:00 – Non Qualifying Practice, gr. 1 (10 minutes)
09:30 – Non Qualifying Practice, gr. 2 (10 minutes)
10:00 – Non Qualifying Practice, gr. 3 (10 minutes)
10:55 – Time Qualifying, gr. 1 (6 minutes)
11:25 – Time Qualifying, gr. 2 (6 minutes)
11:55 – Time Qualifying, gr. 3 (6 minutes)
13:20 – Qualifying Heat E-F (10 laps)
14:00 – Qualifying Heat C-D (10 laps)
14:40 – Qualifying Heat A-B (10 laps)
15:20 – Qualifying Heat C-F (10 laps)
16:00 – Qualifying Heat B-D (10 laps)
16:40 – Qualifying Heat A-E (10 laps)
Friday, 01.05.2026
09:00 – Warm up B-F (10 minutes)
09:30 – Warm up C-E (10 minutes)
10:00 – Warm up A-D (10 minutes)
10:35 – Qualifying Heat B-F (10 laps)
11:15 – Qualifying Heat C-E (10 laps) 11:55 – Qualifying Heat A-D (10 laps)
12:35 – Qualifying Heat B-E (10 laps)
14:05 – Qualifying Heat D-F (10 laps)
14:45 – Qualifying Heat A-C (10 laps)
15:25 – Qualifying Heat D-E (10 laps)
16:05 – Qualifying Heat A-F (10 laps)
16:45 – Qualifying Heat B-C (10 laps)
Saturday, 02.054.2026 08:30 – Warm up, Super Heat 1 (15 minutes)
09:10 – Warm up, Super Heat 2 (15 minutes)
09:50 – Super Heat 1 (11 laps)
10:30 – Super Heat 2 (11 laps)
13:00 – Final (20 laps)
https://www.minardimanagement.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/JuliaAngelardBeforeValencia01a.jpg8001066Valerio Tinghihttps://www.minardimanagement.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/logo_2026_Orizontale.pngValerio Tinghi2026-04-28 10:17:442026-04-28 10:17:44JULIA ANGELARD HEADS TO VALENCIA FOR TWO ROUNDS
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