Furnibo throttleman Frank Hemelaer insists the Belgian’s second position in Sunday’s Evolution Class Endurance Race at the Italian Grand Prix of the Sea was a massive team effort after they scored back-to-back podium finishes.

The Belgian team did not feature in Friday’s PowerPole or Saturday’s Sprint Race due to engine problems and spent the majority of the Italian Grand Prix of the Sea fitting a new one.

The Furnibo team’s spare equipment was stuck at their headquarters in Belgium and Hemelaer was quick to praise the arduous all-round efforts that ensured their competition on Sunday.

“Two people had to drive the engine from Belgium to San Benedetto del Tronto,” said Frank. “It took them 18 hours through the night and arrived as soon as Saturday’s Sprint race had finished.

“The mechanics did a great job and the boat was ready for testing on Sunday morning. It took the team about two and a half hours to fit and ensure everything was checked and double-checked.

“The drivers, the mechanic and our third pilot Benjamin van Riet - everybody did a wonderful job. I must congratulate the team for all their hard work.

“We may have come second but this is a victory for the team.”