Maltese racing driver Nicky Gauci is recovering after a major crash brought his weekend at Vallelunga to an early end during round four of the 2026 Legends Cars Italia Championship.
Gauci had shown strong pace throughout the weekend, finishing eighth in the first practice session before improving to fourth in practice two following adjustments to the car.
He then qualified fourth in his group and eighth overall in a field of 50 drivers, putting him in a competitive position for the two races.
Penalty disrupts first race
Gauci was fighting inside the top 10 in race one when he received a drive-through penalty following a minor on-track incident. The penalty dropped him down the order and limited his chances of recovering.
Gauci said his team believes the penalty was too harsh and intends to appeal the decision.
Major crash ends race two
The second race ended in a much bigger setback. After starting from 16th and moving into the top five, Gauci was involved in an incident when another car struck a raised section of the circuit, sending it into a spin.
Gauci managed to avoid a full 360-degree spin and regain control, but said a following car then made heavy contact with his vehicle at approximately 180 km/h.
The impact caused extensive damage. Repairs could not be completed in time for race three, ending Gauci’s weekend early.
Gauci said he is recovering well following the accident and remains inside the top eight of the championship during his rookie season.
Mugello next on the calendar
Attention now turns to Mugello, with the championship later heading to Misano for the final round, where double points will be available.
Gauci thanked ACME Speedworks, the medical team and those who sent messages of support following the crash.
Source: Nicky Gauci
