[Race Recap] DDRL @ Zolder

- Empty Track at Zolder

DDRL Tests a New Race Format Ahead of Season Two

As the DDRL nears the conclusion of its inaugural season, the league has begun testing a new time trial race format in preparation for the off-season and to introduce flexibility for season two. The latest trial took place at Circuit Zolder, where drivers were given a week-long window to set their best lap times. Competitors had the freedom to adjust their car setups, leading to intense work in the garages as teams fine-tuned every detail in search of extra speed.

As times trickled in, Adam Krukowski quickly established himself as the driver to beat. His team meticulously analyzed track telemetry, identifying key areas where he could gain time, particularly by taking straighter lines through Zolder’s demanding chicanes. Krukowski ultimately set the benchmark at 1:32.022.

Midway through the week, Ben Roehlke took to the track, posting an initial 1:37.557. His team, noticing instability through Zolder’s tight turns, made adjustments to improve the car’s handling. Meanwhile, Ryder Thunderbolt and Daniel Tramontana logged times of 1:36.895 and 1:40.102, respectively, positioning Roehlke between them.

Later in the week, Darren Patel arrived with confidence, immediately posting a 1:35.647. However, his abrupt departure from the track soon after sparked speculation, with rumors suggesting he was in discussions with team managers regarding a potential transfer for season two. Observing Patel’s performance, Roehlke and his team returned to work, refining their approach and pushing through hundreds of laps—both valid and invalid. Roehlke first improved to a 1:36.180, edging out Ryder, before ultimately setting a 1:34.697, securing second place and pushing Patel to third.

Putney and Danger were not heard from during this weeks time trial. Reports suggest they are forgoing any further attempts at gaining points in season one to get an early start to off-season training, but rumors indicate they may be present at the final race to give a proper send off to season one of the DDRL.

- SRG Team Driver Ben Roehlke during his time trial run

Following the time trial, DDRL correspondents caught up with Roehlke at the Strathmont Racing Group team trailer for an interview.

[DDRL Media Team]: "Ben, congratulations on securing a podium finish this week at Zolder. Can you walk us through your experience?"

[Ben Roehlke]: "Thanks, I appreciate it. This week was definitely tough but rewarding. After my first run, I was feeling a bit discouraged watching the other times come in. There are some seriously fast drivers on this grid, and that challenge keeps pushing me forward. A huge part of my success is thanks to my team. They know exactly how to get the most out of our car, and that really showed today."

[DDRL Media Team]: "You mentioned feeling discouraged early on. How did your mindset evolve throughout the week, and what factors played a role in that?"

[Ben Roehlke]: "Mindset is everything in racing. For me, being alone on the track helped a lot. I struggle with consistency in full race formats, but time trials let me focus entirely on my pace. Seeing Patel leave early with a solid time was another motivator—I wanted to push and see if I could challenge that. He’s a strong and consistent driver, so closing that gap was a real confidence boost."

[DDRL Media Team]: "With DDRL introducing a team format next season, do you have any insights on the driver developments so far?"

[Ben Roehlke]: "I’m really excited about the team format. It’s going to add a whole new dynamic to the competition, and I’m eager to see how the grid shapes up. There’s still time left in this trial, and while I’ve posted a strong lap, I know there’s always room for improvement. Being able to focus on pure pace without the chaos of a race has been a great experience, so I might take another shot at bettering my time."

[DDRL Media Team]: "Looking ahead, any thoughts on the final race of the season at Monza?"

[Ben Roehlke]: "Monza is going to be an incredible way to close out the season. With it being the trial location for next season’s format, everyone is going to be pushing their absolute limits. I expect some seriously competitive lap times."

[DDRL Media Team]: "Thanks for your time, Ben, and congratulations again."

[Ben Roehlke]: "No problem, thank you."

-Post trial at Zolder

The Zolder time trial provided valuable insight into DDRL’s evolving race format while showcasing the adaptability and competitiveness of the grid. With drivers refining their setups and mental approaches, the test run demonstrated how the new format could highlight both speed and consistency. As the league prepares for its final race at Monza, anticipation is building—not just for the season’s climax, but also for what’s to come in season two with the introduction of the team structure.