IFMAR WORLD’S CHAMPIONSHIP 1:10 SEDAN GP
GUBBIO ITALY
04-13 SEPTEMBER 2026
From the very first free practice sessions, Naoto Matsukura and Dario Balestri showed outstanding pace, confirming themselves at the front throughout qualifying. Dario delivered a dominant performance, winning all four rounds to secure TQ, while Naoto consistently remained among the leading drivers, finishing 3rd.
The Main Final rewarded Naoto's exceptional speed, consistency, and race management. Supported by the outstanding work of Miura-san and Kitagawa-san, he controlled the race with intelligence and precision, adapting his tyre strategy to Dario's situation and maintaining a strong pace to secure his seventh World Championship title and a second 1:10 Nitro Touring crown. A remarkable achievement for Naoto and the entire team.
For Dario, the race unfortunately unfolded differently from what he had hoped. Following his impressive qualifying performance and a strong start to the Main Final, a problem during the tyre change cost him significant time, followed by a fuel issue. It was a particularly disappointing outcome for a driver who was determined to add the 1:10 World title to his already outstanding palmarès. Eyes on the next one!
Milan Holthuis also reached the World Championship Main Final with his IF15-2, fighting for a long time in the midfield before encountering problems that affected his race.
Carmine Raiola delivered a very strong performance in his semifinal, taking control of the race and building a comfortable lead. Sadly, an engine failure while he was firmly in command brought his race to an early end, preventing him from returning to the Main Final ten years after his first appearance.
Jilles Groskamp fought hard throughout the event. After narrowly missing direct qualification to the Main Final, he battled through the semifinals and Last Chance Final, coming incredibly close to securing the final spot. His determination was evident right up to the chequered flag.
Unfortunately, issues in the other semifinal also slowed down Tironi. At a certain point, his IF15-2 suddenly became very loose at the rear, but with great driving skills, Francesco fought hard to try to secure a place in the Main Final.
With approximately one-third of the cars on the grid, the INFINITY IF15-2 was the most represented car at the event, making our presence felt throughout the World Championship.
Adding even more value to an already memorable event, the IF15-2 also secured the Junior World Championship title with Luca Ielasi, while Juan Carlos Herrero claimed victory in the +40 exhibition race. Two excellent results, further highlighting the competitiveness of the IF15-2 platform.
Three podiums and three victories across the event more than we could have asked for!
Beyond the results, the week was made even more special by the wonderful atmosphere at the event. Once again, the host club demonstrated exceptional organisation, hospitality, and support, helping create a memorable experience for everyone involved.
Congratulations to the entire INFINITY team for the dedication, teamwork, and passion shown throughout the week. A memorable World Championship and another important chapter in our journey together!
See you soon!
Photo credits: MARCO PAFFI
Thank you for capturing the highlights of this memorable World Championship!
