MOTORSPORT: Melbourne track debut for Ferrari 488 GT3

The new Ferrari 488 GT3 race car will join the world's fastest racers on the track for this weekend's Australian F1 GP, marking its competitive international track debut. Not at the same time mind you…

Another feather in the cap for the burgeoning GT3 race category in Australia, the new Ferrari racer’s debut in the Australian GT Championship round at the Albert Park GP street circuit should have plenty of adoring Tifosi (a flash name for Ferrari fans) cheering it on ahead of the main event.

Based on the Ferrari 488 GTB road car, the new GT3 version is tailor made for racing, adhering the GT3 race regulations and naturally sporting a wild array of aero upgrades. It's also powered by Ferrari’s new 3.9-litre turbo V8 engine, replacing its predecessor's 4.5-litre non-turbo V8.

"We are delighted that Australia will be the first country in the world to see the 488GT3, Ferrari’s new GT Challenger, take to the track," said Herbert Appleroth, CEO, Ferrari Australasia.

"To have our client racing teams competing on the track alongside the Formula One team is a great thrill. We can’t wait to share the action with our clients and fans trackside at Albert Park," he stated.

The 488 GT3 will compete in the second round of the Australian GT Championship against the likes of the new BMW M6 GT3, Audi R8 LMS, McLaren 650S GT3, Mercedes AMG GT and others. Unlike the V8 Supercar races at the F1 GP, the GT3 cars will race for season points.

Two local Melbourne-based teams will field the new Ferrari 488 GT3, Vicious Rumour Racing and Maranello Motorsport.

The Vicious Rumour Racing car will be piloted by Ferrari test driver Andrea Montermini and team regular Benny Simonsen, while Maranello Motorsport's 488 GT3 will be raced by Peter Edwards and Tony D'Alberto.