Tough start for Philippe and Gonzalez
08 May 2008Carlin racers Richard Philippe and Rodolfo Gonzalez have endured a tough start to their first season of F3 Euro Series, but the team were buoyed by improving pace at last weekend's event in Mugello.
Having taken part in Carlin's first ever Euro Series event in Hockenheim last month, Philippe and Gonzalez were back in action last weekend for the second round of the season in Mugello, Italy. Having impressed the team with his ability to adapt so quickly to the F3 car, Philippe was on the pace in Mugello to set the quickest overall time in free practice.
The competitiveness of the Euro Series championship became clear in qualifying however, when Philippe qualified 13th ahead of Gonzalez in 23rd. In a particularly tough mid field, Philippe lost two places to cross the line 15th, while Gonzalez made up a number of places to take 18th.
With finishing positions from race one setting the grid for race two, Gonzalez continued to make up places to finish 13th while Philippe crossed the line 17th.
Carlin director Martin Stone said, "We were well aware how difficult Euro Series would be in our first season, but I think everyone, including those outside the championship have been surprised at just how competitive it is this season. Nevertheless, there are obviously improvements we can make -such as carrying our quick pace in testing into the qualifying sessions. It quite a steep learning curve, but I think we'll see our first points finish soon."
The next round of the championship will take place from 30 May - 1 June at Pau.