Lausitzring: A fighting performance went unrewarded

Colin Bönighausen was among the fastest at the ADAC GT Masters race weekend in Lausitz, even though the Lower Saxony native was ultimately not satisfied with the result.

Twenty-one-year-old up-and-coming racing driver Colin Bönighausen was looking forward to making his endurance debut in the ADAC GT Masters. Instead of the usual one-hour ‚sprint races‘, two races lasting one-and-a-half hours each, including two pit stops, were held at the Dekra Lausitzring for the first time this season. However, as early as Friday, it became apparent that the Porsche 911 GT3 R would not necessarily be among the favourites. “During the long runs, we noticed that the rear right tyre was wearing down significantly, so we knew it would be difficult over the long race distance,” said Colin.

Starting from fourth on the grid, Colin put in a brilliant performance in the early stages of Race 1. Despite the partly wet track and dry tyres, he kept the car on the track and held his own in the battle for the top places before handing over to Leo Pichler. He was on course for another podium finish when technical problems struck, just as they had at the start of the season in Spielberg. “In the closing stages, Leo suddenly ran out of fuel on his way to the pits. We’ve already lost at least 30 points this year due to these two technical retirements …”
In Race 2, the razoon – more than racing duo of Bönighausen and Pichler could only manage seventh place in the sweltering heat. “We tried to compensate by adjusting the set-up and looking after the tyres. Ultimately, though, Leo couldn’t do any more.”

Following an accident at work, Colin will miss the race at the Nürburgring. The plant mechanic fractured his right thigh. “It could have ended much worse — it’s a blessing in disguise. Now I have to keep my leg off the ground for six weeks.” Colin underwent surgery on the day of the accident and, after spending two nights in hospital, was discharged without a plaster cast. “I started physiotherapy straight away so that I can get back into the cockpit as soon as possible.” Needless to say, it still hurts when he moves and, at the moment, it’s almost unbearable without painkillers.
Colin still intends to attend the races as part of the ADAC Truck Grand Prix at the Nürburgring from 10 to 12 July 2026. “I want to be there in person to support my team from the pits and wish my teammates good luck.” He is now aiming to return to the driving seat at the Salzburgring race in early September.

Picture: Axel Weichert