The Formula Pro USA Western Championship concluded a spectacular race weekend at Sonoma Raceway, featuring two days of intense competition across the F3, F4, and WRS (Womens Racing Series) classes. Drivers and teams delivered memorable performances, highlighted by record-breaking lap times and dramatic on-track battles.
FPUSA-3: Bonilla Sweeps, Sets Blistering New Lap Record
In the FPUSA-3 category, Kiwi Motorsport’s Jake Bonilla asserted his dominance with a commanding performance. Bonilla secured victory in both the Saturday and Sunday races, showcasing a masterclass in open-wheel racing. On Sunday, he cemented his place in the record books by setting a new Sonoma Raceway track record for a Ligier JSF3 with a blistering qualifying lap of 1:30.059.
The podium was a testament to the strength of World Speed Motorsports, with their drivers Charles Duncan and Dan Decker finishing second and third, respectively, in both races. The strong performance from the World Speed duo demonstrated their consistent pace and race-craft throughout the weekend.
FPUSA-4: Kapoor and Arana Split Wins in Action-Packed Weekend
The FPUSA-4 races were a display of close-quarters racing and thrilling lead changes. Saturday’s race saw a strong showing from Jensen Global Advisors, with Robert Arana taking the top spot on the podium. His teammate, Aiden Zelaya, secured second place, while Ridgeley Welsh of World Speed Motorsports finished in a well-deserved third spot on the podium.
Sunday’s F4 race was a nail-biter, with the lead changing hands multiple times among the top four contenders. In a fierce battle, Yashom Kapoor of World Speed Motorsports emerged victorious, claiming the top slot. Ridgeley Welsh, with his never-quit attitude, earned a second-place finish, improving on his Saturday result. Aiden Zelaya of Jensen Global Advisors rounded out the podium with a consistent third-place finish.
WRS (Womens Racing Series): Fitzgerald and Palestro Exchange Victories
The WRS provided some of the weekend’s most exciting duels. On Saturday, Carolyn Fitzgerald of Kiwi Motorsport showcased her skill, edging out Ana Palestro of Jensen Global Advisors for the win. The two talented drivers reversed roles on Sunday, with Ana Palestro claiming the victory in a hard-fought battle. Their close competition highlighted the growing talent and competitive spirit within the series with falling lap times the entire weekend.
CURRENT POINTS
Formula Pro USA would like to extend its sincere gratitude to all the racers, teams, their families and NASA NorCal for making this race weekend a wonderful success. The level of competition and sportsmanship displayed throughout the event was a true highlight and a testament to the strength of the series.
Remainder of the 2025 Formula Pro USA Western Championship Presented by Exclusive Racing
October 23-25 – Thunderhill Raceway Park
November 14-16 – Buttonwillow Raceway