Alessandro De Tullio, a young university student from Miami, Fla., recently achieved a remarkable victory in his first USF Pro 2000 race at St. Pete, marking a triumphant return to the racing scene after an 18-month hiatus due to financial constraints. Teaming up with Turn 3 Motorsport, the defending series champion, De Tullio showcased his talent by dominating the track, securing a memorable win in the Andersen Interior Contracting Grand Prix of St. Petersburg doubleheader.
The Race Weekend Triumph
De Tullio kicked off the race weekend with an impressive performance, setting the fastest lap in qualifying and earning his first Continental Tire Pole Award. Despite facing stiff competition with 19 out of 22 cars separated by less than a second, De Tullio remained composed and focused on the task at hand. Throughout the race, he displayed exceptional skill and composure, navigating the challenging 1.8-mile, 14-turn street course with precision.
During the race, De Tullio faced intense pressure from Max Garcia, the previous year’s USF2000 champion, who delivered a strong performance in his debut USF Pro 2000 race for Pabst Racing. However, De Tullio’s strategic driving and flawless execution on restarts prevented Garcia from overtaking him, ultimately securing his victory.
Post-Race Highlights and Controversy
Following the race, Max Garcia claimed second place, while Michael Costello, another Florida native, secured third after a post-race penalty for Canadian driver Mac Clark. Clark, who initially finished in third place, was penalized for crossing the line in his defensive maneuvers, resulting in him dropping to fourth. Despite these challenges, Clark’s skill and determination were evident throughout the race, showcasing the competitive spirit of the USF Pro 2000 series.
Additionally, Elliot Cox, Cooper Becklin, and Nicolas Monteiro delivered impressive performances, demonstrating the depth of talent in the field. Monteiro’s exceptional drive from 19th to seventh place earned him the Tilton Hard Charger Award, highlighting his remarkable progress during the race.
Looking Ahead
As the drivers prepare for the second race of the weekend, the stage is set for another thrilling competition. With the green flag scheduled to wave early Sunday morning, anticipation is high for another action-packed event. The USF Pro 2000 series continues to captivate audiences with its blend of emerging talent and seasoned competitors, promising fans an exciting season ahead.
In the world of motorsports, each race offers a unique opportunity for drivers to showcase their skills and determination. Alessandro De Tullio’s victory at St. Pete not only marks a significant milestone in his career but also exemplifies the resilience and passion that drive these athletes to succeed. As the season unfolds, the USF Pro 2000 series is sure to deliver more unforgettable moments and fierce competition, keeping fans on the edge of their seats with each race.
