New Zealand: Saucy misses a good chance
PENALTY INSTEAD OF TOP RESULT At the penultimate main race of the Toyota Racing Series in Pukekohe (NZ), Grégoire Saucy from Jura could have secured another podium. But things turned out differently. After finishing 10th and 6th in the first two races, Grégoire Saucy took the main race on the fast circuit in Pukekohe Park south of Auckland as [...]
After finishing 10th and 6th in the first two races, Grégoire Saucy started the main race on the fast circuit in Pukekohe Park south of Auckland in a promising fourth place. With a super start, the Jurassian immediately moved up to third position in his 280 hp Tatuus Toyota before a small mistake had a major impact.
Back to field 1
In the first braking zone, Saucy unfortunately hit the rear of the car in front of him, Igor Fraga, and spun him around. The Swiss driver was not allowed to enjoy second place for too long - the stewards soon penalized him with a pit stop.
That was the end of the race for him, which, in contrast to the heats, was only affected by a short yellow phase. More than 17th and last place was no longer possible.
Memories of great names
After getting rid of his toughest opponent with Saucy's help, first place went to defending champion Liam Lawson, just like in Saturday's race. As a result, the local hero also took the lead in the championship.
The New Zealand Motor Cup, which is awarded to the winner of the most important race on this circuit, was once held by famous racing drivers such as John Surtees, Jack Brabham, Jackie Stewart, Graham Hill, Bruce McLaren, Stirling Moss, Prince Bira, Reg Parnell, Chris Amon and Keke Rosberg. The best-known racing series at the time were the Tasman, Formula 5000 and Formula Atlantic.
GP New Zealand as final race
Saucy slipped from third to fifth place in the championship (see standings below after 12 of 15 races). He has also lost his lead in the rookie classification. The second and less experienced Swiss rider Axel Gnos did not manage more than three places at the back of the field.
The grand finale in the Antipodes next weekend consists of the 65th New Zealand Grand Prix at the Manfeild Circuit Chris Amon. The title will be decided between Lawson and Fraga.
Like several other competitors who are keeping themselves in shape in New Zealand, they will be competing in the FIA Formula 3 European Championship later in the season, where they will meet the drivers from Jenzer Motorsport in Lyss.
Results TRS Pukekohe Race 1 Results TRS Pukekohe Race 2 Results TRS Pukekohe Race 3
toyota.co.nz/toyota-racing/castrol-toyota-racing-series
