EST1 Debuts in Miami: Estonian Team Takes the Grid Alongside F1 In Carrera Cup North America
Here I am, in the place where I come let go In Miami the bass and the sunset low
— Will Smith “Miami”
While we at Corner 1 are counting down the days to Chapter 6 of what’s already shaping up to be an exciting F1 season, it’s safe to say that this race weekend just gained a whole new dimension for Estonian racing community – EST1 Racing is set to make its historic debut in North America’s top one-make championship, Porsche Carrera Cup North America. And during the Miami Grand Prix weekend no less! This is one of only three rounds on the calendar held in conjunction with a Formula 1 race weekend, sharing the stage with the fastest machines in the world and one of the largest motorsport audiences on the planet.
Not Just Sightseeing – They’re Here to Compete
Although this is currently a one-off entry, EST1 isn’t flying across the Atlantic just to soak in the experience. Representing the Estonian outfit is Javier Ripoll Jr, who already proved his pace earlier this year with podium finishes in the Porsche Sprint Challenge Southern Europe, also with EST1. In Miami, the talented Spaniard is chasing a podium in the Am class, behind the wheel of the Porsche 911 GT3 Cup (992).
Different Continent, Same Playing Field
Team principal Raimo Kulli emphasizes that the series is not at all different from the European Carrera Cup championships – it’s a different continent, but the same battleground. “The main difference is that in North America, they use ABS braking systems and Yokohama tires, which bring their own technical challenges,” adds Kulli.
And of course, the Formula 1 weekend adds an entirely new dimension. “F1 actually makes it much more difficult for us, with all the added restrictions and control mechanisms,” Kulli explains. “But from a visibility and media standpoint, it’s definitely a huge plus.”
Modern Miami Circuit Beckons
The Miami circuit has already hosted three F1 Grands Prix, establishing itself as a modern and technically demanding venue. “From the simulator, it looks like there’s very little margin for error, but the track seems exciting,” says Kulli. According to him, the smoothness of the entire race weekend will depend heavily on how well the logistics play out, from flight timings to staying on schedule.
Carrera Cup NA: Premier Competition and Exposure
Porsche Carrera Cup North America is the continent’s strongest one-make championship, raced in identical Porsche 911 GT3 Cup cars – the same machinery used in Europe. The series visits legendary circuits such as Sebring, Watkins Glen, Indianapolis, and Road Atlanta, offering international exposure and elite-level competition for all teams and drivers.
EST1 is looking to leave a mark in sunny Florida (well, looking at the weather reports maybe not so sunny). Good luck across the ocean!
Interview with Team Principal Raimo Kulli
1. How does the North American Supercup differ from its European equivalents? Same same. It’s an official Porsche series and the toughest one over there. The difference is that they use ABS and Yokohama tires.
2. Who will you field for this round? Our driver is Javier Ripoll Jr, who also raced with EST1 earlier this year in the Porsche Sprint Challenge Southern Europe and scored podiums.
3. What are your expectations? We hope Javier can reach the podium in the Am class.
4. Does being on an F1 weekend bring something extra? F1 actually makes it a lot more difficult for us, with many additional restrictions and controls – but overall, it’s definitely good from a media coverage perspective.
5. What are your impressions of the Miami track? I did a few laps in the simulator to get a feel for it. There’s not much room for error, but it seems like a fun circuit.
6. Will the team have any time to enjoy Miami, or is it the usual fly-in–hotel–track–fly-out? At this point, we’re not sure how much time we’ll have. It depends on flight timings and how everything goes.
Liigu sisu juurde 
