The team aimed to build on Saturday’s triumph during Sunday’s schedule, which featured two 25-minute sprint races. Early in the first sprint, it seemed likely that Petr Lisa could secure another victory. However, a technical issue ended their chances.
“In the chicane, it’s normal to jump over the kerb, but unfortunately, we damaged the driveshaft in the process. Petr only noticed the problem while driving behind the safety car. We decided it was better to retire the car,” Fanta explained.
The time between the end of the first sprint and the start of the second was just three hours. Although RTR Projects worked hard to prepare the car, they ultimately decided not to race for precautionary reasons.
“We replaced the driveshaft, but it wasn’t possible to determine whether the differential was also damaged. We found some debris in the oil. After consulting with KTM, we decided not to risk further damage and withdrew. The gearbox will be sent for an overhaul, and we’ll come back stronger next time,” Fanta added.
Sovička made an impression
Tomáš Fanta had high praise for Pavel Sovička at the end of the weekend. Sovička, who primarily competes in motorcycle racing and the Carbonia Cup with a Corvette Z06 GT, was driving the KTM X-Bow GTX for the first time in Germany.
“I’m really impressed with how well he handled himself in traffic. As a motorcyclist, he has a natural feel for the car and the mechanics. Importantly, when we gave him advice—whether it was from me or Petr Lisa—he immediately applied it. He’s adaptable, eager to improve, and focused on achieving results. I think we’ve clicked on both sides,” Fanta said.
Sovička echoed the sentiment. “The team did an amazing job. I was very happy, and we kept improving throughout the weekend. I’d like to thank Petr Lisa and the entire team for their excellent approach. In the chaotic endurance race, we didn’t make a single mistake, even when the safety car came out and the pit window opened simultaneously. Tomáš Fanta managed all the processes and procedures perfectly, allowing us to finish without any penalties,” he said, praising the team’s performance.
The new driver was also pleased with the gap between himself and teammate Lisa by the end of the weekend: “We finished the weekend with Petr being three to four seconds per lap faster than me. On Sunday, my goal was to reduce the gap to closer to two seconds, but unfortunately, the technical issues got in the way,” he admitted.
Both Sovička and RTR Projects are open to continuing their partnership. Whether they will build on their German outing remains to be seen. “We’ve connected well on a personal level, but of course, other factors will come into play. Pavel primarily races in the Carbonia Cup. We’ll have to see what his schedule allows. He’s also very busy professionally. But we’d be delighted to complete the rest of the season with him,” said Fanta.
The next ESET Cup event takes place during the last weekend of April at the Hungaroring. However, the team will first head to Italy’s Monza a week earlier, where the X-Bow GT2 will make its debut in the GT2 European Series.
