Estonia’s top racing team, EST1 Racing, is poised to make its historic debut in Porsche Carrera Cup North America, the continent’s premier one-make GT series. The team will take part in the upcoming Miami Grand Prix weekend, one of just three rounds held in support of the Formula 1 World Championship.
This exclusive appearance places EST1 Racing on the same stage as the world’s fastest machinery and in front of some of the year’s largest motorsport crowds.
Although this is currently a one-off entry, the team is not heading to the US merely for experience. Representing EST1 Racing will be Javier Ripoll Jr, who has already demonstrated impressive pace earlier this year with podium finishes in the Porsche Sprint Challenge Southern Europe, also with EST1. In Miami, the young Spaniard will compete in the Am class, driving a Porsche 911 GT3 Cup (992), with his eyes firmly set on the podium.
Team principal Raimo Kulli emphasises that the North American series is on par with its European Carrera Cup counterparts – same cars, same standards, just a different continent.
“The main difference,” Kulli notes, “is that the North American series runs with ABS braking systems and Yokohama tyres, which pose unique technical challenges.”
Adding another layer of complexity is the event’s inclusion on the Formula 1 calendar.
“F1 actually makes things more complicated for us – there are many additional restrictions and checks,” Kulli explained. “But from a media exposure perspective, it’s unquestionably a big positive.”
The Miami International Autodrome may be a recent addition to the F1 schedule, but it has already earned a reputation as a modern, technically demanding circuit.
“From what we’ve seen in the simulator, there’s very little room for error, but the layout looks exciting ,” Kulli assessed. He also pointed out that the entire weekend will hinge on smooth logistics – from flights to timetable precision.
Porsche Carrera Cup North America is the most competitive one-make series on the continent, featuring identical Porsche 911 GT3 Cup cars as seen in Europe. The championship visits legendary venues such as Sebring, Watkins Glen, Indianapolis, and Road Atlanta, offering international visibility and world-class competition for all drivers.
Follow the Action Online:
- Official YouTube Channel: Porsche Motorsport North America
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