Degasperi returns to winning form at Pedavena hillclimb

Diego Degasperi claimed victory at the Pedavena – Croce d'Aune hillclimb after a two-month absence from racing. The Trento-based driver, piloting a Norma M20-FC/GEA Zytek prepared by Team Faggioli, showed no signs of rust despite the extended break from competition, posting the second-fastest time in the opening official practice session.

Degasperi's pace remained consistent across both practice runs on Saturday, with margins of just under two seconds separating him from the competition in each attempt. He qualified second overall for the event. "I was a bit concerned at the start of practice because it had been almost two months since I'd driven my Norma M20," Degasperi explained. "The first approach was very positive, and after making some setup adjustments, I felt much more comfortable in the second run."

Race day brought a significant shake-up when Caruso, who had led the practice standings, retired from contention. Degasperi capitalised decisively, posting a dominant first run that saw him beat Liber by 2.66 seconds, Farris by 5.35 seconds, and Moratelli by 5.98 seconds. This commanding margin allowed him to manage his pace in the second run while still improving his time by just over six tenths of a second.

The victory marks Degasperi's return to the top step at Pedavena, where he has won previously during the 2024 season. The result also extends his lead in the E2SC-SS group standings and the three-litre class within both the Italian National Hillclimb Championship (northern zone) and the International Race Salita (IRS Cup). "This win was overdue," Degasperi said. "The first run time was incredible and allowed me to manage the second pass easily. I improved even without pushing hard in race two, so it was a perfect weekend. Thanks to Team Faggioli for the flawless car and to all my partners and the Pedavena fans club—their support gave me that extra edge."