Background: In high-level motorsport, even marginal improvements in performance can have a decisive impact on competitive outcomes. Despite the growing interest in manual and non-pharmacological interventions aimed at optimizing driver preparation, evidence derived from real-world racing contexts remains limited.

Case presentation: This case report describes the evolution of the performance of a professional driver competing in the Ferrari Challenge Trofeo Pirelli during the World Finals event. Baseline data were obtained from official qualifying and race sessions conducted prior to a targeted manual intervention. Pre- and post-intervention performance was evaluated using official qualifying and race data from the World Finals.

Intervention: A structured manual intervention (DriveSense protocol) was performed between the baseline sessions and the World Finals. The intervention primarily targeted the cranio-cervical regions and neuromuscular modulation, with the aim of optimizing autonomic and neuromotor conditions prior to competition.

Outcome: Performance outcomes were assessed using best lap time, finishing position, and the delta relative to the session reference time, calculated as the average of the top 10 classified drivers for each session. Following the intervention, the driver achieved pole position in qualifying, recorded the fastest lap, and won the final race. A marked shift toward the most performant end of the lap-time distribution was observed.

Conclusion: In temporal association with the manual intervention, a significant improvement in relative performance was observed in a top-level motorsport context. Although a causal relationship cannot be established, the magnitude and timing of the observed changes support the need for further investigation into manual interventions applied in high-performance motorsport.