The 2025 PromoRACC Catalunya Cup season commenced with a standout performance by American rider Sebastian Dear at the Circuit Móra d’Ebre. Competing in the Ohvale GP2 190cc class, Dear navigated challenging weather conditions and a wet track to secure a significant victory. Starting from a fourth-place grid position, he demonstrated not only his racing capability but also his strategic approach to the competition.
Mastering the Conditions
From the beginning, Sebastian Dear showcased a strong start, positioning himself behind the early leaders while carefully assessing the track’s grip and conditions. Initially cautious, he methodically tracked the frontrunners’ lines, awaiting the opportune moment to advance. With only four laps remaining, his patience bore fruit as he surged to the front, establishing a substantial lead that he maintained until the checkered flag.
Reflecting on the race, Dear stated, “The big challenge was trying to stay calm and stay on the bike in the tough conditions. I thought I had the speed to make the podium, but I wasn’t sure I had the speed to win because my qualifying was only good enough for P4.” His insights into the race dynamics reveal a profound understanding of the sport, emphasizing how the right mindset and technical adjustments can lead to success.
A Personal Milestone
This victory signifies more than mere points in the championship standings for Sebastian; it represents a crucial personal milestone in his racing career. Having moved from the United States to Spain, he faced the formidable task of adapting to a highly competitive environment filled with riders who have been honing their skills since childhood. Sebastian recounted, “When we first got here, I was getting blue flagged [lapped]. It was embarrassing to hear the Spanish parents yelling about the slow North Americans.” However, his commitment and resilience have enabled him to integrate into this vibrant racing community.
Over time, the camaraderie among racers became apparent as they supported one another both on and off the track. Dear remarked, “Getting on the top step after starting from basically nowhere is a huge mental victory for me. Now that I know I can win, my focus is to continue step by step and see if I can do this again.” This mindset is vital in the competitive realm of motorsports, where each race offers invaluable lessons and experiences.
The Challenges of Competition
As Sebastian navigated the intricacies of racing in Spain, he acknowledged the aggressive style prevalent among local riders. “In Texas, the racing is pretty friendly; in Spain, it’s combat,” he explained. Despite the fierce competition, he embraced the vibrant culture surrounding the sport, highlighting the community aspect that thrives off the track.
Besides Sebastian’s accomplishments, his siblings are also making significant strides in the racing scene. His 12-year-old sister, Sofia, secured a commendable third place in the Ohvale 160cc class, building on her impressive performance from the previous year. Meanwhile, 10-year-old Oliver made his debut in the same category, finishing eighth after a challenging race. The Dear family’s participation in the Spanish FIM MiniGP Championship and Catalunya Cup underscores their commitment to excelling in the sport.
With the backing of the Spanish federation and their sponsors, the Dear siblings are well-positioned for continued success in their racing endeavors. As they confront the challenges ahead, their journey serves as an inspiring testament to dedication and passion in the world of competitive motorsport.