Christopher Zanella completes Magny-Cour double to lead F2 series
Christopher Zanella completed a clean sweep of the silverware in rounds three and four of the 2011 FIA Formula Two Championship at Magny-Cours, promoting him to the top of the drivers standings.
After winning Saturdays rain-affected round three, the 21-year-old Swiss driver today secured his second consecutive win in round four, closely followed by Brit Alex Brundle, son of former Grand Prix racer Martin, and Mirko Bortolotti.
Zanella held off a charging Brundle at the start and protected his lead throughout the 24-lap race at the former Formula One Grand Prix, whilst Bortolotti and an impressive Mihai Marinescu kept them in check. Brundle tried very hard to close on the F2 rookie, running wide at one point but the Swiss driver led confidently, buoyed by his performance from yesterday.
Miki Monras was held back at the start by Ramon Pineiro and it took several laps for the Spaniard to pass him. Once he completed the move he caught up with the leading quartet. Stalking Marinescu for several laps he made a move in the dying moments to take fourth place, but it wasn’t enough to protect his championship lead.
Behind the leading pack, newcomer Jon Lancaster continued a fine debut, making his way up to sixth place and finishing just ahead of fellow Briton Will Bratt. Tobias Hegewald was the last man to take advantage of Pineiro’s drop down the field, although Jack Clarke tried very hard but had to settle for 10th place.
The race was held in dry conditions, in contrast to yesterday’s opener and although some spots of rain were reported in the pitlane, it wasn’t enough to trouble the competitors.
Speaking after the race, Zanella said: I like this track a lot and Im very happy to be leading the championship. I had a good start in the race and had a little fight with Brundle going into the first corner. After that I pushed a bit for three or four laps to make a gap. After that I tried to drive consistently.
Rounds five and six of the series take place at Spa-Francorchamps on 24/25/26 June. For full details and further information on the series click onto www.formulatwo.com.
FIA FORMULA TWO CHAMPIONSHIP, MAGNY-COURS, RACE ONE:
1. Christopher Zanella, 24 laps
2. Alex Brundle, +1.414s
3. Mirko Bortolotti, +2.815s
4. Miki Monras, +6.136s
5. Mihai Marinescu, +8.767s
6. Jon Lancaster, +11.864s
7. Will Bratt, +12.148s
8. Tobias Hegewald, +17.785s
9. Ramon Pineiro, +22.293
10. Jack Clarke, +23.075s