62-year-old Italian, Pirro, took part in the Hailwood Trophy race, featuring 250cc and 350cc motorcycles, and Formula 750 bikes. These races were popular until 1983. Pirro rode a Yamaha TZ250, entered by Michael Russell, and qualified 20th out of 34 bikes, nearly 10 seconds behind the leader.
During the first race on Saturday, Pirro held the 20th position until Alan Cathcart fell, causing a red flag. After the race resumed, Pirro lost some places but gradually improved his pace. He finished 18th overall and 10th in his class.
Pirro shared his experience, saying he was learning something new with every meter he rode. Despite starting 37 Formula 1 races between 1989 and 1991, he felt nervous riding among other competitors. He expressed his newfound respect for motorcycle riders.
The race was intense, with Phil Atkinson winning on his Yamaha. The top three finishers were separated by just 0.423 seconds.
Pirro planned to race again on Sunday morning. The final results would be based on the combined scores from both races.
The majority of races at the 81st MM took place on Sunday. Darren Turner secured pole position for the Ken Miles Cup, driving a Ford Mustang against strong competitors like Andrew Jordan, Rob Huff, and Dario Franchitti.
In the Graham Hill Trophy, Alex Buncombe claimed pole position driving an AC Cobra.
Gerhard Berger, a ten-time Grand Prix winner, showcased the Ferrari 640 he raced in 1989. Despite facing challenges, Berger reminisced about his racing days fondly.
The event also honored Niki Lauda, with Chris Goodwin demonstrating the McLaren MP4/2B that Lauda drove in his final F1 season in 1985.
