Tsolov wins F3 race, Lindblad causes a safety car

F1 News

Formula 3 main race in Budapest
21 July at 08:17
  • Estéban den Toom

Laurens van Hoepen started the Formula 3 main race from pole position. A unique feat, as the Dutchman has never started from the top starting spot in F3. The 18-year-old driver from Wassenaar failed to capitalise on the pole, but did finish second, scoring many points for the Formula 3 championship. Nikola Tsolov won the race, which was run out under the safety car.

Van Hoepen does not exploit pole position, but does finish second

The cars were lined up after the formation lap, but then came another formation lap for the drivers. Van Hoepen's start was far from ideal. Before the first corner, he had already lost his place to teammate Tsolov in the Alpine colours. After three cars went through turn three, Van Hoepen was able to keep up with leader Tsolov.

Charlie Wurz finished the race in Budapest after only five laps. The car seemed to have sustained damage. Noel Leon, long the number three in the main race, was able to follow Van Hoepen well. Tsolov, Van Hoepen and Leon. That was the order from one to three for a long time during the race. No shifts in the top three after the first lap, so Van Hoepen has to make do with second place. Tsolov passes him in the championship.

Championship leader Gabriele Mini had to do his utmost to get into the points. The Italian driver started the race from thirteenth place and managed to gain one spot each time during the main race. After Mini moved up to eleventh place, he was hunting for tenth place, and thus points, but he was passed by Mari Boya two laps before the end of the race. So no points for the championship leader.

Lindblad causes safety car in Hungary

Arvid Lindblad did not manage to drive himself into the points. Indeed, the 16-year-old driver caused a safety car on lap 21. The race then finished under the safety car. The Prema Racing Red Bull junior started the race in 21st position and managed to drive himself up to 18th, but then Lindblad had to abandon the race. The car had to be towed away.