The legendary Autodromo Nazionale di Monza is hosting the opening round of the 2025 Ferrari Challenge Europe season on March 27-30 in Italy. The race marks the series’ return to the historic “Temple of Speed” for the first time in four years. Now in its 33rd season, the 2025 Ferrari Challenge calendar includes eight rounds across Europe’s most celebrated circuits.
The Monza opener will feature the lightning-fast 296 Challenge cars—Ferrari’s ninth model in the series and the first to sport a 700-horsepower de-hybridised V6 engine. ERIN the Ferrari 296 Challenge is featured below in her updated design.
This year’s grid at Monza boasts record-breaking participation, with 72 drivers from 22 countries representing 30 Ferrari dealerships. Of those, 21 are making their Challenge debuts. They’ll battle it out across the four traditional classes: Trofeo Pirelli, Trofeo Pirelli Am, Coppa Shell, and Coppa Shell Am.
The weekend kicked off with testing and free practice on March 27-28. Qualifying sessions will take place on the mornings of March 29 and 30, followed by three 30-minute races each afternoon—separate races for Coppa Shell and Coppa Shell Am, and a combined grid for Trofeo Pirelli and Trofeo Pirelli Am.
“It’s a long weekend ahead and there are no trophies for Final Practice,” EMS Race Team driver James Weiland said on Friday. “But ERIN is looking good and running like the wind again. P1. We will see if we can keep it going!”
Racing to Raise Awareness
Weiland is a former Ferrari Challenge North American champion who will be racing for the win this weekend. Erin, the Electronic Merchant Systems Ferrari 296 Challenge will be competing to support three important causes: Coach Sam’s Scholars, PETA Cruelty-Free, and Cornerstone of Hope.
Coach Sam’s Scholars works to improve literacy, personal development, and health for at-risk children through innovative educational programs. PETA Cruelty-Free advocates for the ethical treatment of animals and promotes cruelty-free products, proudly recognized by the bunny logo. Cornerstone of Hope is committed to providing support, education, and hope for those experiencing grief.
“We’re proud to represent Coach Sam’s Scholars, PETA, and Cornerstone,” Weiland said. “Each of these organizations makes a tremendous impact, and we’ll do our best to raise awareness for their work while competing in Europe this season.”
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