In the final race in the Forza 2023 Championship, Fluttershy is being faced with a unique race that not even she could have predicted...
Fluttershy, race winner at the Horizon All-Stars event in Mexico and returned driver for Equestria Motorsports, has the chance to take the eighth team title with her teammates, this against their title rivals from last year, Akula-Lauda Racing. The finale stood at 3-3, so the tiebreaker would decide everything.
However, during the race in Spa-Francorchamps, the unthinkable happened: A driver flew off in Eau Rouge, and after the decision of the officials, Fluttershy was faced with a very unique situation in one of her most important days of racing...
Rated T for Teen. Special credit goes to TunedPonyRC for the MLP Forza Fanfiction. Inspired by AppleLauda's story about the Forza 2022 Finale.
Permission to submit the story was granted by TunedPonyRC, so, again, thanks for that.
Fluttershy was in the garage of the Equestria Motorsports team, and she looked both excited and terrified. She couldn't believe that it all came down to this moment, to this day, to this race...
This was the final race of the Forza 2023 Championship, Round 7 of the Finals, the race to decide which team becomes champion. Equestria Motorsports has done well in the previous stages, advancing against Flynt Motorsports and the Washouts with dominating wins. They did lose once against the Washouts, but it certainly didn't slow them down.
Now, they are once again facing their rivals from last year, Akula-Lauda Racing. And they sure improved a lot, with 2 early wins to their name, followed by three wins for Equestria Motorsports, then followed by another win for Akula-Lauda.
And this is it - the last race. The championship decider. Round 7 of the Finals.
Assetto, EQM's team boss, decided to send in Zipp Storm, Izzy Moonbow, Fluttershy, and Pinkie Pie. An all-Ferrari lineup for the big day, where they could potentially win their 8th team title...
Rainbow Dash came up to the shy girl, who was about to take on the track. "Hey, Fluttershy. How are you feeling?", she asked.
"Nnnervous... I haven't done this in a long time.", Fluttershy responded.
"Yes... It's been 3 years since the last time you won the Finals for us.", Rainbow Dash said, "Just do what you did in those past four races, and the championship is ours!"
Fluttershy smiled. She knew that the team trusted her. These past four races in the Finals, she won the race every single time. Assetto decided to bring her in because Applejack and Octavia screwed up in the first two races and cost the team their wins. Fluttershy was a fast driver, with her fair share of clean driving to it. Just like the Iceman in person...
Fluttershy's thoughts went to the former F1 driver known as Kimi Raikkonen. Wherever he would be racing now, she knew that he would show clean and fast driving. And today, she would try to follow in his footsteps and get another championship title with her team.
She got up and checked her car, her trusty 488 GTB, for the last time. This car had its fair share of triumphs, just like its driver, winning the championship in 2020, and getting Equestria Motorsports into the final of 2021, which the new girl at EQM, former Shadowbolts Sports driver Indigo Zap, won in her first season for the new team.
Now was the time. Fluttershy changed from her casual attire into her racesuit, put on her shoes and gloves, and put on her helmet before she got into her car. The helmet was a design that her biggest fan, Rushing Wind, came up with. It had its fair share of yellow, green, and pale orange, with rabbit silhouettes in black and white on it.
Then, she started the engine, and the 488's V8 roared up. Then, Fluttershy drove out to the grid. Her amazing performance in yesterday's Qualifying brought her P3, behind her teammate Zipp Storm, and Akula, one of her rivals.
And today, on this fateful day, one team will make history. It's twelve laps of pure action in the Ardennes, and nobody knows who will win...
The roar of eight engines filled the scene as the lights came on, and the race was about to get underway. Fluttershy carefully looked at the lights to make sure she doesn't miss the start.
5... 4... 3... 2... 1...
And as the lights went out, Fluttershy released the clutch and accelerated. If there was one thing that she perfected in her driver career, it was grid slot starts. Coming into La Source, she managed to jump Akula, and even get past her teammate Zipp, putting her in an early lead.
"Wow, great start, Fluttershy. Now hold on to it!", said Rainbow Dash, her race engineer.
"You bet I will.", said Fluttershy in determination. She has driven this track so many times, in the simulator, in video games she played at Rushing Wind's home, and of course in her entire driver career too. Nobody was more of a master at Spa than Fluttershy was.
She raced through Eau Rouge with grace and precision, this without losing too much speed, and on the Kemmel Straight heading for Les Combs, she once again showed the superior speed of her trusty race car.
Not even those tricky Pouhon and Stavelot turns were a challenge for the shy girl, as she managed to take them with typical accuracy, that very few are capable of pulling off themselves.
As she raced to the final chicane, Rainbow said over the radio: "Wow, slow down, Flutters! You're already pulling away so much, you already got a 5 second gap to Akula!"
"Spa is one of my favorite tracks. No time to slow down!", Fluttershy said, still very determined to end this season with a bang.
"Haha, now you just remind me of myself when I was racing.", Rainbow laughed, and Fluttershy answered with a giggle as she raced through the Bus Stop Chicane and ended the first lap.
LAP 2/12
Fluttershy's amazing starting lap gave her a 7 second lead, and it seemed to grow with every second that passed. She knew exactly how to handle herself on Spa, despite the track being one of the toughest in the world. Especially Eau Rouge is a very dangerous turn, and in her first days of racing, Fluttershy also struggled with that very turn. However, she managed to adapt to that turn as she gained experience, and now it was just routine like pretty much every turn on Spa.
Another great lap, more seconds gained, and her lead increased to 11 seconds.
LAP 3/12
Rainbow Dash radioed in: "Hey Fluttershy, just to let you know, we would like to take you into the pits first. You got a huge gap, and maybe you can come out in the lead."
"Okay. I'll come in on Lap 6.", Fluttershy responded.
"Copy. Now just focus on the race.", Rainbow said.
Fluttershy knew her team all too well. They always had great plans and strategies for nearly every situation, but this was a special one, seeing as she was dominating the competition. But it made sense, since Fluttershy was a master at Spa, and she knew the track and her car all too well.
As of right now, nobody was able to stop her, and on this lap, she was able to grow her lead even further.
LAP 4/12
Fluttershy now had a 16 second gap to second place, and she was seeking to increase it. The car felt so good in her skilled hands, and she definetly was the fastest driver in the field right now.
As she raced over the track, Fluttershy reflected her thoughts of the 2020 season finale, which she won for her team also. Like nothing was able to stop her, she plowed through the entire grid with utmost precision. It was a dominant display of driving skill, and now, three years later, it all seemed to repeat itself.
Fluttershy smiled in delight when she raced through the final sector. She was thankful that Assetto put her back into the seat, but she was even more thankful that she could race in the big season finale.
It was such a big honor...
LAP 5/12
After 4 laps, Fluttershy already had a gap of 21 seconds. There was a chance that she could lead the race after her pit stop. She just needed another great push lap, and a perfect inlap, and then she could lead the race when she came out of the pits.
As she kept racing, Fluttershy wondered how her teammates were holding up. For one, she did know that Zipp might be close to Apple Lauda, who is no slowpoke around Spa anymore. Pinkie and Izzy are most likely three or four seconds behind the two, pretty much close to Viral Velocity and Mick Schumacher.
LAP 6/12
This was the lap where Fluttershy needed to come in for her stop. So she needed a good inlap, and then, she had a chance to come out of the pits leading this race.
Eau Rouge went well, basically the entire first sector went great. Coming in hot into Pouhon, she suddenly started to drift. However, using her ice cold driving skills, she held the drift all the way through Pouhon, making her smile with pride afterwards.
"Whoa, what the heck, Fluttershy? How the fuck did you drift the car like that?", Rainbow Dash yelled over the radio.
"What can I say? Years of experience on the track. I'm sure you could do it too, Rainbow.", Fluttershy said, trying to be humble.
"Haha, okay copy!", Rainbow Dash laughed before she then said: "Alright, we're ready. Come in this lap."
"Roger that, Rainbow.", Fluttershy said.
At the Bus Stop Chicane, she then peeled off to the right and went into the pits. The Equestria Motorsports mechanics awaited her, and put her on a fresh set of tires. They also refueled her car before they let her go.
Fluttershy came out of the pits, and she was now in P3. However, Zipp and Apple Lauda were right up the road, so she knew that she could catch them if she did it smart and caught them off guard. They still had to pit, and Fluttershy knew it, but she wanted to go for the pass.
Coming out of Pouhon, she was very close to the two, and out of Stavelot, she hit the throttle and caught both her teammate Zipp, and her rival Apple Lauda off guard, passing them both. Now back in the lead, she just needed to finish up the race, and if her team did well too, the championship is as good as won...
LAP 8/12
Fluttershy was already leading again, and so many drivers were still to pit, so there was no doubt that she was going to win this race. She just needed to hope that her team did their jobs too.
"Great driving, Fluttershy. Keep it up.", said Rainbow.
Fluttershy knew that her team cheered her on, and she knew that she was the right pick for the Finals. She proved it four times already, and now comes a fifth time.
However, after she went through Eau Rouge, she heard an explosion further back. Looking into her mirror, Fluttershy saw flames, and her look changed into a shocked one. All over the track, red flags are being shown.
"Red flag, red flag. Are you okay?", Rainbow asked, in huge worry for her friend.
Fluttershy didn't know what to say at first, but as she slowed down, she said: "Fuck, guys... That was a big one, that was a big one... Tell me whoever was in that car is okay, tell me they're okay..."
"They're still checking. Come back into the pits.", Rainbow said, and Fluttershy drove back to the pit lane. On her way, she wondered who got hit. Zipp was still behind her, couldn't be her, and Pinkie Pie pitted in, can't be her...
Apple Lauda's Reaction
Apple Lauda was in P2, but he still had to come in. Fluttershy was right up the road though, so he thought, maybe a neat pass for pride is the best way to end the season. Then, he saw the explosion in his mirror.
"WHAT THE FUCK? What happened there?", he yelled when he saw the flames.
"Red flag, red flag. Drive back to the pits.", said his race engineer.
Apple Lauda was shocked. Never in his racing life has he seen that before. He said: "No no no... Fuck man, no no no... Please, tell me they're fine..."
"No information yet. Come back to the pits."
Zipp Storm's Reaction
Zipp was behind Fluttershy and Apple Lauda, in P3.
"Damn, Fluttershy already pitted and she's leading again? Why in the heck did Assetto not pick her for last year? He could've retired anyone but her!"
"Assetto decided to keep his most seasoned veterans for last year and filled in the three empty spots with you, Izzy, and Sunny. I can't help it.", said Spitfire, her race engineer, "Just focus for now."
After Eau Rouge, Zipp heard an explosion. She looked into her mirror and saw flames coming up. "Whoa!", she said in shock.
"Red flag, red flag! Are you okay?", asked Spitfire.
"No, shit, shit, shit... What the heck happened there? Are they okay?", Zipp asked, shocked beyond her belief.
"They're checking. Just come back to the pits.", Spitfire said.
"Nooo, its... fuuuck, fuck, this is bad...", Zipp said, still shocked.
Akula-Lauda Garage Reaction
The mechanics of Akula-Lauda watched the race in anticipation, with Apple Lauda closing in on Fluttershy.
"Come on, come on, go for it!", said one of them.
And then, they saw the crash. Izzy Moonbow's vehicle was touched by Viral Velocity, and the car with the number 15 flew off. And when the car exploded and went up in flames, all mechanics had a shocked look on their faces.
"Oh my fucking goodness me...", said a second mechanic.
"What the fuck are they doing? Fucking get her out!", said Nico Hulkenberg, who was watching the race with his fellow teammates that weren't sent in.
Equestria Motorsports Garage Reaction
The mechanics and drivers of Equestria Motorsports watched the race in delight as they see Fluttershy come out of the pits and still lead the race. The battle for the championship was still on, and the mechanics were still excited as they watch Zipp Storm try to pass Apple Lauda, who definetly improved around Spa.
After Lap 7, Pinkie Pie came in for her stop. They gave her fresh tires and released her again. Suddenly, there was an explosion to be heard and the mechanics and drivers had a shocked expression on their face. On TV, it was shown - Izzy's vehicle was spun out by one of their rivals, raced into the wall front first, and it exploded.
"No! Izzy!", screamed Sunny, after seeing her best friend's vehicle crash into the wall.
"Hoo boy... That was nasty...", said Applejack, unsure what exactly to say.
"Get her out of there... Someone get her out of there!", exclaimed Starlight Glimmer, also shocked beyond belief.
"This is terrible...", said a shocked Sunset Shimmer.
Back in the Pits...
Fluttershy looked at the replay that played over and over, and it was revealed that the new girl at Akula-Lauda Racing, Viral Velocity, touched Izzy on the inside of the entry to Eau Rouge, and that sent Izzy's vehicle off.
"Jesus... That was awful...", Fluttershy said after watching the crash from three perspectives, and once in slow motion.
"You betcha. I sure hope Izzy's okay...", Applejack said.
On TV, the marshals were still on to put out the fire. Since the 599 GTO that Assetto made for Izzy had a front-placed engine, it was obvious that a frontal crash at high speed causes the car to explode. When the fire was a bit weaker on the left, another marshal used a crowbar to open the door. As the marshals continued to put out the fire, suddenly, a burning driver leapt out of the car, then fell to the ground.
When the fire was put out, it was clear - Izzy survived.
"Izzy! She's alive!", Sunny exclaimed, with obvious relief in her voice.
"Oh, my...", said Fluttershy in huge surprise as her eyes widened.
"No fucking way! How did... How did she get out?", asked Zipp, obviously as surprised as Fluttershy was.
"This... this is an act of God.", Starlight Glimmer said, "There's no way anyone normal would've survived this..."
The entire Equestria Motorsports Garage watched in awe as the marshals took Izzy away. This girl was sure very lucky that she didn't die in that horrible crash.
About 30 minutes later, some of the officials came to the seven remaining drivers. One of them said: "So, we got good news and bad news. Izzy Moonbow is alright, but she has some third degree burns and a broken leg. Which means she's unable to continue."
"Oh my...", Fluttershy said in slight shock. She still was thankful that her teammate was okay, but these injuries sounded nasty.
"So, what's gonna happen now?", asked Zipp Storm, unsure about the call of the officials.
"I'm afraid we're gonna have to postpone the race. A 3 on 4 would be unfair, and Izzy will need a lot of time to recover.", said another of the officials.
Fluttershy looked around. The looks on the faces of everyone around her, even from her team's rivals, were heartbreaking. They wanted to have an amazing finale, and now it was all over...
Or was it?
Fluttershy noticed that night was falling. "What better way to end the season than with a night race?", she thought. And then, she decided to speak up. "Wait!", she said, gaining the attention of the officials.
"What is it, Fluttershy?", asked the first official.
Fluttershy made sure to choose her words wisely when she spoke: "How about we do a new race? The night would make it an amazing finale, and what better way to end the season than with a race at night?"
"So you're saying, you want a 3 on 3 race to end the season?", asked a third official.
Fluttershy narrowed her eyes and looked very determined. "No. One versus one. The final showdown. Whoever wins the race, wins the championship. It's as simple as that.", she said.
"Give us a moment.", said the first official.
Fluttershy patiently waited while the officials debated on the call. A few moments later, they turned around and said to her: "You know, we never had a night race as the championship finale, so... The race will be held."
Everyone around Fluttershy cheered. They sure were happy that the race will be held regardless. Fluttershy's teammates were worried, though.
"Are you sure about this, Fluttershy?", asked Applejack, "Who is supposed to drive in this race?"
"Hey, maybe I should do it! This will be SO MUCH FUN!", yelled Pinkie Pie.
Then, Sunny stepped in: "No, I should do the race! For my friend, Izzy!"
"You have no night experience, Sunny! I can take care of the race if you want to!", said Zipp.
"ENOUGH! Stop arguing!", yelled Fluttershy.
"What, do you have a better idea, Fluttershy?", asked Sunny, a bit irritated.
"I'm gonna do the race.", Fluttershy said.
"Are you sure about this, 'Shy? Maybe you really should leave the race to someone else.", said Assetto, who just came up.
"Assetto, I'm a master at Spa. I have driven so many times here, I'm pretty sure it won't be different at night.", Fluttershy said. She definetly wanted to take another championship for her team.
"Alright. We'll send you in. It's all up to you now.", Assetto said.
"Good luck out there, my friend.", said Zipp, and patted Fluttershy on the shoulder.
"Yes. Please, win for Izzy!", Sunny said.
"And win for the team!", Pinkie Pie said, bouncing up in excitement.
Fluttershy looked at her team. She may be nervous about all this, but at the same time, she knew that her friends believed in her. And she wanted to live up to it and take the champonship for her team...
Now was the time. The time where things got serious.
The 6 lap night race at Spa, the title decider for 2023, which was also the premiere of a night race in the Forza Championship, was about to begin.
Fluttershy lined her car up on the grid. Since she was the lead driver out of the drivers that were still running, she was allowed to start from pole position. However, she has never driven a night race before, and assuming that her rival, Apple Lauda, who did have night experience, was right behind her, it worried her.
"Hey, Fluttershy. How are you feeling?", asked Rainbow Dash, who was on the radio with her.
"Um... n-nervous... I have never driven a night race before...", Fluttershy responded.
"Don't worry. There's always a first time for everything. Just make sure you don't forget your pitstop, okay?", Rainbow said.
"Yes, Rainbow.", Fluttershy said.
"We'll be watching from the pit garage. Good luck, Fluttershy!", Rainbow cheered.
Taking some deep breaths, Fluttershy prepared her body and mind for the big race. The team believed in her, and she definetly wanted to live up to that. If she won the race, she would be today's hero, especially for the team. But if she lost... Then her racing days would be over.
Fluttershy shook off those dark thoughts and prepared for the light sequence. The lights came on, five red lights for the final showdown in the night of Spa...
The lights went out, and both drivers went off, for the championship decider.
LAP 1/6
Fluttershy got a great launch off the line, but since she had no night experience, she had slight struggle to find the braking point for La Source, allowing Apple Lauda to pass her.
"Relax, Fluttershy. You still got plenty of time.", Rainbow Dash said over the radio.
Fluttershy tried to, but the fact that Apple Lauda passed her gave her huge worries. She had no memory of Spa at night, and this was her first ever night race.
Eau Rouge was no big deal though, as the headlights clearly gave her a view of that tough turn, and she made it easily on her first shot. This got her a bit closer back to Apple Lauda, but he was still further up the road.
Essentially every single turn of Spa felt like a totally new thing for Fluttershy when it was night time. Even Pouhon and Stavelot that she usually dominated during the day, was like a new thing at night. However, she still got them right on her first shot, even if not as quick as the day.
Coming out of the Bus Stop Chicane, Fluttershy was behind her rival, but not so far as she thought she would be.
LAP 2/6
The second shot at La Source went way better, and Fluttershy went a lot faster through that turn. Further adapting herself to night conditions, she became faster and faster around Spa, and managed to get closer and closer to Apple Lauda.
She also got a bit more used to the braking points in the dark night, which allowed her to go through Les Combes, and even the very tricky Bruxelles U turn with ease and grace.
Pouhon and Stavelot were still a bit tough to master at night, but Fluttershy knew that she needed to get these right in order to try and make a move on her rival soon. He was still a bit ahead, and both needed to do one pit stop at least, so it's a combination of getting timing and pace right.
LAP 3/6
Fluttershy knew that she needed to get closer to Apple Lauda. However, it was tough to get close to the dominator of the night, so she needed to come up with something.
Suddenly, she had an idea. What if she came into the pits to serve her stop?
As she pondered the thought, she was racing over the Kemmel Straight. A pit stop would mean that she served her mandatory stop, but it would also mean that she needed to play catch-up on Apple Lauda because she would lose a lot of time.
Going through Pouhon, Fluttershy knew that she had to try it. If that didn't do the job, nothing will.
"Rainbow, I'm coming in this lap!", she said over the radio.
"What? Are you fucking serious? Do you want to lose this race or not?", Rainbow Dash asked, quite irritated.
"Of course not!", Fluttershy said.
"Then stay out and wait for Apple Lauda to come in!", Rainbow Dash said.
"No, I told you I'm coming in! I have to try something in order to win!", Fluttershy said, trying to sound convincing, while navigating through the technical sector 2.
"I said stay out! If you come in now, your race is gone and done, so shut up!", Rainbow Dash yelled.
Suddenly, as Fluttershy raced through Sector 3, Assetto radioed in: "Don't listen to Dash. Just come in this lap. I know how much you want the chance for an undercut. And we don't see the Akula-Lauda pit crew outside."
"Okay, I'm coming in!", Fluttershy said. And going through the Bus Stop Chicane, she peeled off into the pits.
"Wow, you're really playing with fire, are you?", Rainbow Dash asked.
"Now, calm down, Rainbow! Assetto told me to come in!", Fluttershy said.
The pit crew worked quickly, changing tires in just three seconds, and since the car was fueled up enough to last the race, Fluttershy was immediately released back onto the circuit.
LAP 4/6
"Alright, Fluttershy. We did our job. Now it's up to you. Catch Apple Lauda, and finish the race in your typical grace!", Assetto said.
"Solid copy.", Fluttershy said. Determination was building up in her mind. She was looking to win the race.
Racing over the track, Fluttershy's thoughts went back to 2020. The time where she won the Finals for her team. Nothing was able to stop her, she fought her way through the field, flew over the circuit, and won the race in her typically graceful manner. And now, she wanted to replicate just that.
Racing through Pouhon, the car felt amazing in Fluttershy's grasp. Like a pilot of a fighter jet, she raced over the turns as quickly as she could. It was now or never - she would either catch Apple Lauda with this different strategy, or still end up behind him, with no chance to catch up...
As she approached the Bus Stop Chicane, Rainbow Dash radioed in: "Apple Lauda entered the pits."
"Alright. Here goes nothing.", Fluttershy said, and now she knew that this was her sign to attack. She tried to take the Bus Stop Chicane as aggressive as she could, and managed to push through without sending the car sideways.
The moment of truth was among her - would she be in front, or is she at least closer to Apple Lauda?
Apple Lauda peeled off into the pits. He knew that this could be a close one - when Fluttershy came in, she was about 4 seconds behind, so this pit stop would most likely decide everything.
But, as he turned into the pit box, and the mechanics started working on the car, suddenly there was a problem.
One of the tires wouldn't come off.
"Darn it! It won't come off!", said the mechanic on the front left tire. Other mechanics came to help him while Apple Lauda became pretty irritated.
"Jeez, what the fuck's taking so long?", he yelled to no one in particular. He was losing a lot of time, and at this rate, the championship would slip through his fingers if the stop took any longer...
Lucky for him, the wheel eventually came off, and the new tire was attached. And finally, Apple Lauda was away and back on the circuit...
LAP 5/6
Fluttershy raced through La Source with grace. She expected to be right behind her rival, Apple Lauda. But when she didn't see him ahead of her, she knew that something must have happened...
"Where's Apple Lauda?", asked Fluttershy over the radio.
"Seems like he got a slow pit stop.", Assetto responded, "But that's a good thing, because now is your chance! Hold the lead and win!"
"You bet I'll win!", Fluttershy said in determination.
She knew that Apple Lauda was behind her, but judging by his lights in her mirror, he must be like 3 seconds behind. There was no time to take it easy though. Both of them want the championship so badly, and none of the two will give up until either has the lead in their grasp.
Sector 2 was Fluttershy's strong point, even in the dark of the night. Now that she got used to it, she took Bruxelles and Pouhon fairly quick, further increasing her lead.
Stavelot was still not easy, yet still manageable, so the time loss in this turn is not as high. The Bus Stop Chicane was also not that simple at night, because it was easy to miss the braking point.
LAP 6/6
But now is the time - the final lap.
One more time through La Source. One more time through Eau Rouge.
Everything went well. Fluttershy was able to hold her lead against Apple Lauda, even slightly increased it.
Suddenly, turning into Pouhon, Fluttershy went into a drift again. "Whoa!", she said, shocked by the sudden reaction of her car. However, she was able to hold the drift by balancing the throttle and smooth steering.
She was down, but not out! She was still ahead, and still had the chance to win, even though Apple Lauda closed in fast.
Now came the last sector, and Apple Lauda was right on her rear end. Here came Stavelot, and one last charge to the finish through Blanchimont.
Heading for the Bus Stop Chicane, both drivers were wheel to wheel. Whoever would be braver, they would win the fight, the race, and the championship.
Fluttershy was outside for the Bus Stop Chicane, so she could brake later. Suddenly, as she was braking for the final two turns, Apple Lauda plowed straight out of the turn! His wheels locked up under braking!
And then, out of the Bus Stop Chicane, Fluttershy crossed the finish line, winning this race!
"YES, YES, YES!", Fluttershy cheered.
The Equestria Motorsports garage went crazy. Everyone in there cheered and fell into their arms, knowing that they became eight time winners of the Forza Championship.
Assetto came on the radio, and said: "Well done, Fluttershy. I knew it was a good idea to bring you back into the seat. You did it, we are eight time champions! What a race. Congratulations!"
"Oh, great work guys. Couldn't have done it without you. Thank you.", Fluttershy said as she returned her car to the pits.
The Final Award Ceremony
Back in the pits, Fluttershy parked the car, and the moment she got out, her teammates ran up to her, hugging her.
"Oh my...", Fluttershy said, blushing, "I didn't know you worried about me this much."
"Of course we did. You're our friend... And our hero.", Rainbow Dash said.
Assetto came up too. "Dashie is right, Fluttershy. You are indeed our hero, and probably the best racer we ever had.", he said.
"Awww, thank you, Assetto.", Fluttershy said happily.
Then, Apple Lauda came up to face Fluttershy.
"Damn, if it wasn't for that slow pit stop and for my own stupidity, I could've caught you...", the Akula-Lauda driver said.
"Aw, don't be so hard to yourself. That was a good race.", Fluttershy said to comfort him.
Apple Lauda smiled. "Well, I guess you can't win them all, and despite your early struggles, you pulled through, so... Congratulations.", he said.
Both drivers shook hands. "What can I say? You took on the master of Spa.", Fluttershy said.
"I know, and you dominated the race during the day.", Apple Lauda said.
Suddenly, one of the officials spoke over the speakers: "Ladies and Gentlemen, another year of the Forza Championship is over, and we got a winner..."
"Oh, we better get going. The final award ceremony will start soon.", Fluttershy said, and then went away with her team.
"Hey Fluttershy!", Apple Lauda called out to Fluttershy, making her head turn to her rival, "Next year, we will take the championship!"
"We'll see about it!", Fluttershy responded. And then, she went to the award ceremony with her team.
The officials were at the podium, holding two trophies. One of them held a microphone.
"Ladies and Gentlemen, please put your hands together for the eight time champions of the Forza Championship - Equestria Motorsports!", he said.
Fluttershy, along with her entire team, went to the podium, with Fluttershy taking the top step. The second official gave the trophy for the Forza 2023 Team Champions to Assetto, the owner of the team, who lifted the trophy triumphantly into the air, earning cheers from the crowd.
Suddenly, the first official gave a hand sign, gaining attention. He then said: "And, we also got a new title - the Driver Champion Title. We'll award it to the best driver in the finals. This title goes to... Fluttershy!"
Fluttershy gasped. This definetly came very unexpected. She was the Driver Champion of the Forza 2023 Championship. The third official came up to her and gave her the Forza 2023 Driver Champion trophy. Filled with joy and pride, she lifted the trophy up in the air and triumphantly cheered: "YEAH!", which gave her a lot of cheer from the crowd.
With the Forza 2023 Finals over, the team of Equestria Motorsports succeeded to defend their title, after a race that was totally unexpected and unique. Winners of the night premiere, eight time champions, Fluttershy being the first Driver Champion, they're on top of the world...
After the final celebration, Fluttershy went to the interview area, facing former F1 driver Jenson Button. She was excited, but as a champion, she had all the right to be.
"Fluttershy," he began, "that was an amazing performance in the night premiere of the Forza Championship, and that was truly a dramatic race. Now, how do you feel about the fact that not only you got your team their next title, but also that you have become the first Driver Champion of the Forza Championship?"
Fluttershy didn't know what to say. Her emotions were over the top, but she didn't want to show it. She just said: "I'm very happy. My team believed in me, they got me through the season, and in the end, the driver who won the race won the championship. Of course I'm happy that it was me, but I'm also happy that my rival, Apple Lauda, gave me a very good race to the finish. He's a talented driver, and we both deserved the win. But you know what they say - there can be only one champion, right?"
"Obviously, Apple Lauda gave you a good fight for the championship, but you were able to prevail. Do you think that a rivalry between you and him will develop in the following season?", Jenson asked.
"That's up to him. He's a beast at night, but I'm a master at Spa. We both share different strong and weak points, so us having a friendly rivalry, two drivers of two powerful teams, that's what this sport is all about, and I would be happy to mess with him on track next year.", Fluttershy said.
"Coming into Pouhon in the last lap, your car suddenly went into a drift, but you were still able to catch the car. We all must say, we're impressed, because normally, every driver that lost the rear end of their car either spun out or crashed. So how come you have managed to hold the drift, and this twice on the same track?", Jenson asked.
"Rushing Wind trained me to do so. He told me that drifting with a race car requires a lot of accuracy, but one day, it would save my race, and my life. And believe me, if I didn't know that, the race would have taken a turn for the worse, or even worse, I would have ended up like Izzy.", Fluttershy said.
"Talking about your teammate, she's in the hospital right now, they're examining the broken leg. What do you think, could she continue her racing career next season?", Jenson asked.
"Well, I have no idea how bad the injury is... I mean the crash was very nasty, but as you saw, she survived, so the answer is... I don't know, to be honest. You would have to ask her.", Fluttershy said.
"Then, we heard some rumors that the officials plan to use Spa as a track which would be run in the season itself, but no longer as the Finals track. What do you think about that?", Jenson asked.
"Honestly, if this happens, I'm going to miss Spa as the final track to race on. Though I don't mind having a new track for the Forza Championship Finals, as we have seen Spa as the final track for so many years now. Which one will make the cut is not my choice though, so... We'll see what happens.", Fluttershy said.
"And finally, since you became the number 1 driver, you are entitled to run the driver number 1 next season. But keep in mind that defending the title will come with great responsibilities, and great expectations. Do you think that you are up for the challenge?", Jenson asked.
"Of course I am. I wouldn't think that if I didn't believe in myself and my team. So, yes, I am going to run the number 1 next year, trying to defend it with everything I got.", Fluttershy said.
"Alright, that is all. Appreciate your time, Fluttershy.", Jenson said before he went away.
"The pleasure was all mine.", Fluttershy responded.
Interview with Izzy Moonbow
Izzy Moonbow was in her hospital bed, feeling lonely. She sighed in frustration.
"Just why did I try to go for it in Eau Rouge? Now Equestria Motorsports will lose, and it's all my fault...", she said, tears building up in her eyes.
Suddenly, the door opened. A doctor invited Sunny Starscout and former F1 driver Romain Grosjean into the room. "She's in here.", he said.
Sunny ran over to her friend. "Izzy!", she said in relief and hugged her friend, "I'm so glad you're okay..."
"Aw, you came to visit me, Sunny... What about the others?", Izzy asked.
"They're still back at Spa, taking care of the remaining stuff. And also, there's someone who wants to talk to you.", Sunny said.
"Correct. It's me.", said Romain.
"Oh, I heard of you. You're Romain Grosjean, survivor of that nasty crash in Sakhir, right?", Izzy asked.
"Yes. They sent me to interview you, so let's jump straight in.", Romain said.
Izzy tried to sit up straight, which wasn't as simple with her broken leg. Then, Romain got started.
"So, since I assume that you didn't get to see the race as you were in treatment, what do you say about Fluttershy's victory in the night premiere of the Forza Championship, which also was the title decider?", Romain started.
"Wait, did you say that Fluttershy won? That's... that's great news!", Izzy exclaimed, "I knew that she could do it! But, why exactly was it a night race? I thought they only get to race at Spa during the day?"
"Believe it or not, but the idea came from Fluttershy, after the officials suggested to postpone the race because you were unable to continue. She also suggested to do a one-on-one, and not a 3 versus 3, like it would have been otherwise.", Romain said.
"Haha, sounds like Fluttershy desperately wanted to drive the final race.", Izzy said.
"Not just her, but all the others looked a bit down after the initial decision of the officials.", Romain said.
"Okay. What's next?", Izzy asked.
"I guess everyone, including your team boss Assetto, would like to know if you are going to continue racing next year?", Romain said.
Izzy looked at her plastered leg. It would take a long time for it to heal, and who knows how long? Her mind flashbacked to the crash. She was lucky that she survived, otherwise this would have been one of the worst days in racing history. She also looked at the burn spots that were grafted with skin. They were slightly visible, being reminders of this insane crash.
"Look, racing sounds really good, but unfortunately, I have to decline.", Izzy said.
"What? Izzy, are you sure about this? Assetto brought you into the team last year, and you're just throwing it away just because of one crash?", Sunny asked in disbelief.
"The crash taught me a valuable lesson. Racing is cool and all, but I would rather prefer it as a video game, as you won't get hurt in a video game. Therefore, it's less dangerous. I mean, if you guys need help at the factory, I can run in the simulator... As long as my leg recovers.", Izzy said.
"A very bold choice, Moonbow.", Romain said, "When I suffered that crash in Sakhir, I also quitted Formula 1, but it certainly didn't stop me from racing. I just needed time to recover, and then, I joined IndyCar."
"Haha, I guess we're both alike, aren't we, Grosjean?", Izzy asked.
"Yes we are.", Romain said, "Now to wrap it up, if you aren't going to continue your racing career at Equestria Motorsports, who do you think might be a solid replacement?"
Izzy replied with: "I guess we should leave it to Assetto. He's not going to bring back Rainbow Dash and Rarity, that's for certain. Maybe he's going to put his faith in young blood? Like someone completely new? I heard of Rushing Wind, the best race driver on the west hemisphere, maybe him? I don't know."
The New Driver
"You serious? Izzy is not going to continue racing for us?", asked Assetto Sunny, quite irritated about the news.
"I'm sorry, Assetto, but she clearly said, and I quote - Racing is cool and all, but I would rather prefer it as a video game, as you won't get hurt in a video game - End quote.", Sunny said, trying to explain the situation to Assetto, "She did suggest to do test runs in the simulator, for example, if we should upgrade our cars."
"I trusted her, and she didn't do so bad at all. Why did she have to have that crash?", Assetto said, still not in such a good mood.
"Hey, at least she's alive, right? Why are you so obsessive with track results if you don't worry about your drivers? We're a team under your orders, remember?", Zipp stated.
"Yeah. I mean, look at me. I'm not racing for your team anymore, because I felt like I'd better off as someone who helps behind the scenes.", Rainbow Dash said.
"And I'm not racing anymore, because I would rather take part in Showcases, like the Shoukanetta Drift at all these different race tracks.", Rarity said.
"And look at me. You brought me back into the seat, because you knew that I would bring you to victory against very strong rivals, like Akula-Lauda Racing.", Fluttershy said.
Assetto looked at his band of active and former racers, and frowned in defeat. "You know... you guys are right. I guess I'm just so obsessed with results on track and with finding new drivers to prove themselves, retiring three of my best racers on the spot, that I didn't even realize how this affects each and every one of you. And... I'm awful sorry.", he said.
"Hey, it's okay.", said Twilight, who just came up, "Look, Assetto, even I don't get everything right, and afterwards, I always realize what a horrible mistake I made."
"Thanks Twilight.", said Assetto, "I guess I should focus on you guys from now on."
He first turned to Fluttershy.
"Fluttershy... I'm sorry that I forced your retirement.", Assetto said.
"You... forced it?", Fluttershy asked.
"Yeah... I had no idea how you would feel about it.", he admitted, "You're my best driver, and I just retire you on the spot. Heck, even Spitfire said that Zipp said during the day race that I could've retired anyone but you... Thing is, Applejack, Pinkie Pie and Sunset were my most seasoned veterans, so I definetly wanted to keep them, because they have the most experience."
"Well, there's nothing wrong with that, but--" Fluttershy was interrupted by Assetto.
"No... They're my most seasoned veterans, but they aren't my best drivers. Retiring my best drivers is just wrong. And you're my best driver, and I didn't realize until this fateful night. Sorry, what I have done can't be apologized. I had you skip one season just because I wanted to give rookies a chance.", Assetto admitted, "Heck, I could even imagine you would've loved to join a different team just to continue racing..."
"Well, I could have... And I could have destroyed your team if I did so.", Fluttershy said teasingly.
"I know, and I would've taken the karma, because I messed with the best driver of my team, and--"
Fluttershy interrupted Assetto with: "But I would never go against your team. That would just be disloyal. And Rainbow Dash knows disloyalty when she sees it."
"Exactly. You should know better, Assetto.", Rainbow Dash said.
"I know, and I'm awful sorry, Fluttershy. I should focus on my best drivers instead of just seasoned veterans.", Assetto said to Fluttershy.
"It's okay, Assetto. You only meant well for your veterans, and the rookies you hired.", Fluttershy said.
"I have to be honest here, driving alongside Fluttershy was actually the best experience I had, even though she dominated the Finals. She truly is the best driver of this team, I'm not gonna lie.", Zipp said.
"Awww, thank you, Zipp.", Fluttershy said.
"Now, Fluttershy, now that this is out of the way, since you became champion, I would like to ask you... Do you want to drive a different car than the Ferrari 488 GTB next season?", Assetto asked.
"Oh, um... I think I'm going to continue driving a Ferrari. Though I wouldn't mind a different model.", Fluttershy said.
"Good call. But which one do you want?", Assetto asked.
"Maybe I can help with that.", said a newcomer. It was Rushing Wind.
"Oh, Rush. It's you.", Fluttershy said, "What car would you have for me?"
"Well, how does a Ferrari 458 from the GT Endurance class sound?", Rushing Wind asked.
"Exactly what I want. You know my preferences.", Fluttershy said.
"Well, I wouldn't if we weren't together for so long.", Rushing Wind said.
"Say, Rush, I have an idea.", Assetto said, "Izzy recently announced that she will not continue racing for our team, so... what do you think about becoming one of our drivers?"
"For real?", Rushing Wind asked, "What do I have to do?"
"You're gonna be a newcomer, so I'll put you through the initiation test before you will be one of our racers. And, you will have to drive a Ferrari, I just want to know which model.", Assetto said.
"Well, I don't have to think twice. I would like to drive the 599XX. I love that car.", Rushing Wind said.
"Alright, meet me at Monza near the end of winter, and then, we can get on with the initiation.", Assetto said.
"Sure thing.", Rushing Wind said.
"Assetto, are you sure about this? Some of us hardly know him, who knows if he won't perform to our standards?", Rainbow Dash asked in worry.
"Well, some hardly know him, but I know him well. He's the best racer in the west hemisphere, so... Maybe he's going to give me a run for the Driver Championship next year.", Fluttershy said.
"And us the ninth Team Championship title.", Assetto said, "Alright Rush, see you in Monza."
Assetto and the rest of the team went back into the garage. Fluttershy and Rush stayed a bit longer outside.
"Are you excited to race alongside the defending champion next year?", Fluttershy asked.
"I sure am, Flutty. And when the time comes, I can't wait to get started.", Rushing Wind said.
"Alright, I gotta go. But hey, I'm gonna watch you drive in Monza once you get there for your initiation.", Fluttershy said.
"Okay. See you.", said Rushing Wind, before he went away.
A New Track for the Finals
The Forza Championship Officials were in their main office.
"Now, we have seen the awful crash in the day race during the Finals. So what do you think, how should we react to that?", asked the first official.
"Well, we all know that Spa is a fan favorite, but it's also a very dangerous track. Remember Lando Norris from 2021?", said the second official.
"Yes.", said the third official, "But, that was a different story, since back then, there was an insane monsoon rain, and the visibility was awful. And today, we had dry conditions."
"Exactly. We need a different track for the Forza Championship Finals.", said the fourth official, "Any suggestions?"
"Hmmm, now that is a tough one.", said the fifth official, "We definetly need a track with decent run-off zones, so that crashes like these become less frequent."
"So definetly not something like the Mount Panorama Circuit.", said the sixth official.
For almost two hours, the six officials discussed about a possible replacement track for the Forza Championship Finals. They wanted a known track, which was also safe enough to drive on to make crashes less frequent. They first agreed for Monza, but scrapped the idea. Then they agreed for the COTA, but they wanted a European track for the Finals. Then they agreed for Catalunya, but that was also not the best pick. Silverstone, Mugello, and even the Hockenheimring also were scrapped, because they were probably the most obvious picks for a final race.
Then, they remembered that the night premiere in Spa had a huge impact on the fanbase - not just the stands were full with people, but also the TV ratings went sky high after the night race, so they needed a European track that allowed pit stops and was able to be driven at night.
Finally, the third official suggested: "How about... The Nürburgring GP Circuit?"
"You know... That is a great idea. It has a good share of run-off zones, the barriers are also in a fair distance, and the lights also allow for a night race.", said the fourth official.
"So, it's decided.", said the first official, "In future seasons, the Finals will take place at the Nürburgring GP Circuit, and the tiebreaker takes place at night."
With the decision made, the officials stamped the decision, and went out of the office, with the first one contacting the owners of the Nürburgring to let them know about the decision they made.
