TeamFloral strengthens its position among the frontrunners of the GT4 European Series while underlining its close collaboration with Ford Racing as a key factor behind its success
Misano (IT), July 20, 2026 – TeamFloral continued its impressive run in the GT4 European Series during the fourth round of the season at the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli. Following podium finishes at Monza and Spa-Francorchamps, Belgian driver Michiel Haverans and American teammate Sam Paley once again stood on the podium, this time on Italy’s Adriatic coast. The result further confirms TeamFloral’s emergence as one of the championship’s consistent front-running teams.
Technical Misano presents a new benchmark for TeamFloral
The TeamFloral Mustang GT4 had already proven its competitiveness this season on faster circuits, but Misano’s technical layout presented an entirely new challenge. As a result, qualifying became an important learning process for both the drivers and the engineering team.
Sam Paley qualified tenth for the opening race, while Michiel Haverans secured ninth on the grid for Sunday’s contest. With both drivers starting inside the top ten and valuable insights gained throughout qualifying, TeamFloral entered the race weekend well prepared.
Mechanical failure denies TeamFloral a podium in first race
Paley delivered a strong opening stint in Saturday’s first race. The American fought his way forward through the field and kept the Ford Mustang GT4 firmly in contention.
Following the driver change, Haverans continued the charge. Displaying excellent pace, he steadily worked his way towards the front and climbed into third place with less than ten minutes remaining.
A podium appeared to be within reach until a suspension failure, with just five minutes to go, abruptly ended an impressive comeback drive.
“It was obviously very disappointing to retire so close to the finish,” said Haverans. “At the same time, we shouldn’t forget how competitive we were throughout the race. We had the pace to fight for the podium, and that gave us confidence heading into Sunday.”
Strong team effort rewarded with another podium finish
The team worked tirelessly throughout Saturday night to prepare the car for Sunday’s race. Thanks to the mechanics’ dedication during the late hours, the Mustang GT4 returned to the grid in perfect condition.
Haverans immediately set the pace during the opening stint, climbing from ninth to fourth before handing the car over to Paley. The American continued the attack and, with a series of consistently fast laps, fought his way back into third place during the closing stages to secure another well-deserved podium finish.
“After Saturday’s disappointment, we had only one goal: show what we’re truly capable of,” said Paley. “Everyone worked incredibly hard to get the car ready again. Being able to reward that effort with another podium makes this result even more satisfying.”
TeamFloral and Ford Racing reinforce their position among the GT4 European Series frontrunners
With three podium finishes in the last three rounds and a consistently competitive Mustang GT4, TeamFloral continues to establish itself among the frontrunners of the GT4 European Series.
“The support and collaboration with Ford Racing are of tremendous importance to us,” emphasized Team Manager Jean-Marc Valckenaere. “Ford Racing is fully committed to making the Mustang GT4 a race-winning car, and we feel we’re getting closer to that goal with every event.”
In a highly competitive championship featuring multiple manufacturers, maintaining this level of technical support and close collaboration is essential. By continuously analysing, refining and further developing the car, TeamFloral keeps improving its performance while unlocking even more of the Mustang GT4’s full potential.
That shared ambition with the American manufacturer continues to motivate the Belgian team to bring out the very best in both the car and its drivers.
After four rounds, TeamFloral now turns its attention to the penultimate event of the GT4 European Series season, taking place from September 18 to 20 at Circuit Zandvoort, where the team will look to extend its impressive run of results.
