Carl Bennett arrived in the 2025 International GT Open season carrying both momentum and curiosity. The Thai-American professional racing driver stepping into one of Europe’s most competitive GT3 paddocks, Bennett made his debut in the Pro class with AF Corse, piloting the Ferrari 296 GT3. It was his first full exposure to the rhythms and politics of top-level GT racing, where margins are thin, and adaptation often matters more than reputation. Over the course of the year, he did more than keep up. He announced himself as a genuine contender.
The results told a clear story. Bennett and co-driver Tommaso Mosca opened their campaign at Portimão, learning quickly, then began to convert pace into outcomes. Podium finishes at the Hungaroring were followed by race wins at Paul Ricard and the Red Bull Ring, performances that placed the pairing firmly in the championship fight.
One of Bennett’s most revealing moments came away from the glare of the race itself, on a soaked Hockenheimring during GT3 qualifying. “It was a good qualifying for me and very fun to adapt to the new slippery conditions. The team was happy,” he said, pointing to a session that tested instinct more than aggression. It captured his growing comfort in GT3 machinery, reading grip as it disappeared and staying composed while others struggled. Another highlight was at Hungaroring, which delivered a milestone of a different kind. “My first GT3 podium at Hungaroring,” he recalled, before laughing at the memory that followed. “Plus on the race live when our team manager said over the radio now they ‘see the dragon!’” Lastly, Paul Ricard turned promise into proof. “My first GT3 race win at Paul Ricard and a huge celebration with AFcorse again all jumping together after hopping out [of] the car.” Together, those moments traced the arc of his season, from adaptation to affirmation.
The year did not end with a title, and Bennett is clear-eyed about that. “Unfortunately we were short of our goal to win the championship by only 4 points. On my side if I adjusted to my first year of GT3 cars a bit faster maybe we could have won the championship.” He also discovered how hard racing can become when everyone has similar machinery. “I didnt expect overtaking to be this difficult in GT3. Some tracks its almost impossible.”
Away from the circuits, balance mattered just as much as performance. Bennett values “[t]ime with the team members and my family back in Thailand,” moments that grounded a season spent largely on the road. Looking ahead, the off-season is split between rest and restlessness. “Driving racecars again but also time with family and friends again,” he said, when asked about his off-season plans. His ambition for what comes next is direct and unapologetic. “My Goal is to win the upcoming 2025-2026 ALMS championship in GT3!” For drivers joining the grid next year, his advice reflects the clarity he gained across the season.
“Always enjoy and do your best!”
