Nicky Gauci places 22nd in Rotax Max Challenge Grand Finals in Bahrain

The Rotax Max Challenge Grand Finals was held between December 11 and 18 at the Bahrain International Circuit. The Grand Finals is where the championship winners of 66 nations meet and Nicky Gauci represented Malta. 

A total of 378 participants competed in various categories.

Gauci took part in the Senior Max category with 72 participants. In the first days, the seven training sessions proved vital for setting up the kart and for Gauci to familiarise himself with the track. He also registered one of the fastest lap times recorded in his category during these sessions.

Gauci finished in position 33 out of 72 drivers at the end of the three heats, securing his place in the Pre-Finals.

In the pre-final, Gauci acquired a place in group A and grid position 17. Gauci advanced from position 17 to seventh, securing himself a place in the finals.

Gauci’s result had a special mention by the commentator who said: “Nicky Gauci – Malta in the final! This is a long time since Malta has made it to the Final. So pull out the party banners Valletta, Nicky Gauci is in the Final.”  

In the 21-lap final race for the best 36 drivers, Gauci started in 28th place. It was an intense start, and by lap three, Gauci advanced to position 17.

At the same lap, an accident sent Gauci off track and at the back of the field.

Gauci immediately caught up with the other drivers and started advancing, overtook 13 drivers and finished in 22nd place.

In a statement the Malta Motorsport Federation congratulated Nicky Gauci on his success and performance as the Maltese representative at the Rotax Max Challenge Grand Final 2021.