Kiwi Zack Scoular has made an immediate impression on the European endurance racing stage, securing a podium finish in his debut appearance in the Michelin Le Mans Cup at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya.
Representing leading outfit R-ace GP, Scoular underlined his potential in one of Europe’s premier proving grounds for endurance talent. The New Zealander partnered with Swiss driver Lena Bühler to deliver a polished performance, the duo qualifying on the front row in second before converting that speed into a hard-fought third place in a chaotic, incident-filled two-hour contest.
From the outset, the race proved anything but straightforward. An opening-lap multi-car collision brought out the Safety Car before the field had even completed a full tour, setting the tone for a stop-start affair. Once racing resumed, R-ace GP immediately asserted control at the front, with the sister car leading the field while Bühler held firm inside the top three.
Interruptions continued to disrupt the flow, with another Safety Car and a lengthy neutralisation period following further incidents across the LMP3 and GT3 classes. Despite the constant resets, the R-ace GP entries remained firmly in contention, showcasing strong pace and composure in difficult conditions.
The race began to take shape around the mandatory pit window at the halfway mark. After the driver changes, Scoular took over the no.86 Duqueine and rejoined in a podium position, while his teammates in the no.85 machine maintained the lead.
As the race entered its final stages, Scoular faced sustained pressure from a fast-closing pack behind. American driver Colin Queen emerged as the primary threat, carving his way through traffic to close in on the Kiwi in the closing laps. Despite the mounting challenge, Scoular delivered a composed stint, managing the gap and holding firm to secure a podium on debut.
Out front, R-ace GP completed a dominant performance, converting their pace into overall victory, with Enzo Peugeot and Danial Frost taking the win and maximum points to lead the championship standings after the opening round.
Behind them, Scoular’s third-place finish marked a significant milestone — not only a podium in his first European endurance outing, but a statement of intent against a highly competitive international field.
Elsewhere, the LMP3 Pro/Am honours went to Bretton Racing, while Racing Spirit of Léman claimed victory in the GT3 class after a dramatic late-race battle that included penalties and a last-corner collision.
For Scoular, the Barcelona result represents a dream start to his European campaign and reinforces his credentials as one of New Zealand’s exciting emerging talents in endurance racing.
The Michelin Le Mans Cup now heads to Le Castellet for Round 2 on May 2, where Scoular will look to build on an impressive debut performance.
Header Image: R-ace GP
