Mancin seeks crucial results at Pedavena hillclimb

Michele Mancin will return to competitive action this weekend after more than a month away from his Citroën Saxo Group A, with the Pedavena–Croce d'Aune hillclimb holding particular significance for his 2026 campaign. The event, scheduled for 19–20 September, represents a critical juncture for the Rivà-based driver, who competes under the Gaetani Racing banner.

Mancin currently sits third in the Group A-S standings of the Italian Mountain Speed Championship (northern zone) and third in the Group A-S1600 class of the International Race Salita (IRS Cup), with both championships still offering opportunities for a strong finish. The driver acknowledged a difficult period marked by significant technical changes that have complicated his season, though he remains determined to fight for a competitive result in both series.

The 4.5-kilometre Pedavena course holds personal significance for Mancin, who secured a double title—CIVM and TIVM—at the same venue in 2013. He finished third in the GT category at last year's edition. The hillclimb will feature two practice runs on Saturday, with two timed runs scheduled for Sunday. The course begins on Via Trento in Pedavena and finishes at Pian d'Avena along provincial road 473.

Mancin expressed cautious optimism about his technical preparation while emphasising the need for everything to function perfectly if he is to achieve a prestigious result. He indicated that the coming practice sessions will be crucial in confirming whether all systems are operating as intended.