DOUBLE PODIUM FOR UGOCHUKWU AT PAUL RICARD
An action-packed weekend just came to a close, as the drivers of the F4 Italian Championship get ready to enjoy a well-deserved summer break, after taking on 5 of the 7 rounds making up the 2023 season. A good weekend overall for Ugo Ugochukwu, the American-born 16-year-old driver, who adds two more trophies to his collection, showing exceptional charisma and determination on track.
Taking the third fastest time in the first session of Free Practice on Friday, just 0.169 seconds off leader Sztuka, the Prema Racing driver proved to be confidently quick and ready to take on the qualifying session the following day.
As the moment came for Ugo to push for a P1 finish in qualifying and a consequent Pole Position start for Race 1, the American did nothing but deliver. The McLaren junior went on to top the ranks during the first Qualifying Session, and secured a front start for the first official race in the afternoon. A third position in the second session of qualifying then guaranteed a P3 start for the young gun in Saturday’s Race 2.
A little hesitation right off the marks during Race 1 from the Prema driver allowed Polish Kaspar Sztuka to take over first position, who then was quick enough to protect himself from eventual attacks from the American. Despite matching the pace of the leader, and creating a comfortable gap to teammate James Wharton in P3, Ugo had to settle for second position.
The second race of the weekend saw the 2022 British F4 Rookie Champion start in P3, behind Sztuka and Finnish teammate Taponen. Despite a chaotic start, which saw him fall back into P5, Ugo immediately took on the mission to get back to the Top 3, engaging a brilliant battle on track with US Racing’s Zachary David and his British teammate and championship leader Arvid Lindblad. Thanks to his determination and stamina, the mission was accomplished, and Prema Racing could celebrate another double podium finish.
The last race of the weekend saw the championship’s runner-up take a P5 finish, after a challenging race, which he although managed to conclude for the third time in a row in front of current championship leader Lindblad, scoring some additional precious points and closing the gap to the Londoner.
A very positive performance for Ugo the past weekend, despite very hot conditions on track, at the French circuit of Paul Ricard. Jump right back into this weekend’s emotions, and check out the main races’ streams.
