A proven winner in both open-wheel and sports car racing, Jonathan Summerton is among a small but dedicated group of young American hopefuls working their way toward Formula 1. Following successes in Champ Car Atlantics, Indy Lights and the now-defunct A1 Grand Prix series (LEFT) Summerton raced this year with the Rahal Letterman Lanigan BMW team in the American Le Mans Series, but his F1 ambitions remain undimmed despite disappointments like the collapse in 2010 of the planned USF1 team, which had signed him as one of its drivers.
After a busy week catching up, I thought I would update you on my 72-hour world tour.
On Nov. 30 I jumped on a flight to Munich, where I arrived Dec. 1 – the day of the BMW Season Review Gala. During the day I walked around Munich and explored the winter/Christmas markets with Bill Auberlen. There were some amazing little stands selling home made crafts, clothes, and candies. There were hundreds of people at the market all shoulder to shoulder. It was definitely an awesome sight to see.
After we went back to the hotel and got all sized up for our Baldeserri suits and gear. It was now off to the BMW Gala which was at their newly opened Performance Center just outside of Munich. The ground was covered in snow and weather was below freezing. At the event they had lots of outdoor heaters, fire pits and a very fun, festive setup.
Bruno Spengler made an awesome entrance driving "The Beast" in a runway-like setting with lights and fireworks – and, of course donuts – in his DTM car. The gala was probably one of the best I have been to. Food was amazing along with great entertainment and setup.
I was back on a plane to Florida at 9am Sunday morning to head to Sebring to go have some fun with some friends in their exotic sports cars. I had a blast driving 458s, a McLaren MP4-12C and of course the mighty Fiat 500 Abarth! All in all I traveled 10,600 miles in a 72-hour window that was full of excitement. I am looking forward to what is to come next season and the challenge ahead. Just wanted to say thank you to everyone for your support!