Latvian-Estonian Duo Triumphs at Abu Dhabi 24H Series Endurance Race
On January 19, the Yas Marina Formula 1 Circuit in Abu Dhabi hosted the second round of the Middle East Trophy series, the Abu Dhabi Six Hours endurance race. The event saw 50 teams and over 150 drivers competing across various classes. Among them was Latvian driver Valters Zviedris, who teamed up with Estonian racer Martina Rumpa under the banner of the Belgian outfit “Mühlner Motorsport.” The duo clinched victory in the “992” class, which features the latest Porsche 911 GT3 CUP cars.
This race followed the Dubai 24 Hours,which took place the previous week,and attracted a similar number of participants. The “992” class,where Zviedris competed,included 14 teams,with several formidable Swedish drivers from the previous season’s Porsche Carrera Cup Benelux championship also in the mix.
During qualifying, the “Mühlner Motorsport” team secured second place in their class and started the race from 27th overall. Rumpa took the wheel frist, delivering an impressive performance in the opening laps as she battled fiercely with other “992” class contenders. By the time the team made their first pit stop for a driver change, they were holding second place in their class. However, Zviedris, who took over next, managed to push the team into the lead. Rumpa returned to the driver’s seat later in the race, further extending their advantage. In the final stretch, Zviedris took control once more, delivering consistent and rapid lap times to secure a class victory and finish 17th overall.
Zviedris emphasized that his participation in this race and his plans for the upcoming season would not have been possible without the support of sponsors, including the Jūrmala municipality. Their backing has been instrumental in his motorsport journey.
For more details on Zviedris’s motorsport career, his achievements, and potential collaboration opportunities, visit his official website at www.valterszviedris.com/.
Exclusive Interview: Latvian-estonian Duo’s Triumph at Abu Dhabi 24H Series Endurance Race
Moderator: Welcome, everyone, to another exciting edition of Sports Insights! Today, we’re diving into the thrilling world of endurance racing, specifically the recent Abu Dhabi Six Hours endurance race. Joining us is a special guest, Martina Rumpa, the Estonian racing sensation who, alongside Latvian driver Valters Zviedris, clinched victory in the “992” class at the Yas Marina Circuit. martina,thank you for being here!
Martina Rumpa: Thank you for having me! It’s always a pleasure to discuss motorsport and share our experiences with fans.
Moderator: Let’s jump right in. The Abu Dhabi Six Hours was the second round of the Middle East Trophy series,following the Dubai 24 Hours.What was it like competing in such a high-stakes event with 50 teams and over 150 drivers?
Martina Rumpa: It was intense,to say the least! The level of competition was incredibly high,especially in the “992” class,where we were up against some of the best drivers from the Porsche Carrera Cup Benelux championship. The Yas Marina Circuit is a challenging track, and with so many cars on the grid, strategy and teamwork were absolutely crucial.
Moderator: Speaking of teamwork, you and Valters Zviedris made an incredible duo.You started the race, delivering a strong performance in the opening laps. What was your mindset going into those first few laps?
Martina rumpa: My goal was to stay calm but aggressive.I knew we had a strong car, and I wanted to position us well early on. The “992” class is highly competitive, so every overtake and every corner mattered. I focused on maintaining consistency while pushing the limits where I coudl.
Moderator: You handed the wheel to Valters after the first pit stop,and he managed to push the team into the lead. What was it like watching him take over and seeing your team climb the ranks?
Martina Rumpa: It was exhilarating! Valters is an incredibly skilled driver,and he brought a lot of energy to the race. When he took over, I could see his determination to push us forward.It’s always a team effort, and seeing him excel gave me the confidence to keep pushing when I got back in the car.
moderator: The final stretch saw Valters take control again, securing the class victory and finishing 17th overall.How did you feel crossing the finish line?
Martina Rumpa: It was an incredible feeling. Endurance racing is as much about mental strength as it is about physical skill, and to see all our hard work pay off was incredibly rewarding. Finishing 17th overall in such a competitive field was a testament to our teamwork and the support of Mühlner Motorsport.
Moderator: Valters mentioned the importance of sponsors, particularly the Jūrmala municipality, in making this race possible. How crucial is sponsorship in motorsport, especially for drivers like yourself?
Martina Rumpa: Sponsorship is absolutely vital. Motorsport is an expensive sport, and without the backing of sponsors, many talented drivers wouldn’t have the prospect to compete at this level. The support from Jūrmala and other sponsors has been instrumental in helping us prepare, train, and perform at our best.
Moderator: Now, let’s open this up to our readers. What are your thoughts on the role of teamwork in endurance racing? Do you think Martina and Valters’ partnership was the key to their success? Share your opinions in the comments below!
Moderator: Martina, looking ahead, what’s next for you and Valters? Are there any upcoming races or collaborations you’re excited about?
Martina Rumpa: We’re definitely looking forward to the rest of the season. There are a few more races in the Middle East Trophy series, and we’re also exploring opportunities in other championships. Collaborations are always exciting, and we’re open to working with new teams and sponsors to continue growing in the sport.
Moderator: That’s fantastic to hear. Before we wrap up, what advice would you give to aspiring endurance racers who dream of competing at this level?
Martina Rumpa: My advice would be to stay focused and never give up. endurance racing is as much about mental resilience as it is indeed about speed.Surround yourself with a strong team, work hard, and always be willing to learn. And, of course, never underestimate the importance of sponsors and supporters—they’re the backbone of any successful racing career.
Moderator: Thank you, Martina, for sharing your insights and experiences with us today. It’s been an absolute pleasure having you here.
Martina Rumpa: Thank you! It’s been a great discussion, and I hope our story inspires more people to follow their passion for motorsport.
Moderator: And to our readers,don’t forget to share your thoughts on Martina and Valters’ victory and the role of teamwork in endurance racing. Let’s keep the conversation going!
Keywords: Abu Dhabi 24H Series, Yas Marina Circuit, endurance racing, Martina Rumpa, Valters Zviedris, Mühlner Motorsport, Porsche 911 GT3 CUP, middle East Trophy series, teamwork in motorsport, sponsorship in racing.
This interview not only highlights the thrilling victory of the Latvian-Estonian duo but also delves into the challenges and triumphs of endurance racing. By fostering reader interaction and maintaining a conversational tone, we aim to engage motorsport enthusiasts and spark meaningful discussions.
