London, Sep 25 (IANS) Force India Formula 1 team academy driver Jehan Daruvala took the British MSA KF3 Championship battle into his own hands with a brilliant performance at the PF International Circuit.
Jehan was in form throughout the whole weekend, qualifying in the top three and finishing in the top two places in each of the two heats and finals, including a commanding win in heat one.
The Indian was in the best position to make the most of championship rival Daniel Ticktum’s retirement in the first race, dropping just five of the 160 points on offer. This result allows Jehan to come in the final round of the Championship, to be held at Shennington Oct 11-13, with the knowledge of having a crucial five-point advantage over his rival.
Academy driver coach and mentor Terry Fullerton said: “Third in qualifying, a heat win and then three second places gave Jehan a massive points haul. This now elevates his position to that of Championship leader, going into the last round. The final weekend is set to be a real nail biter with Jehan having a slender five point lead over his main adversary.”
Daruvala on his performance said: “Qualifying in third gave me a good starting position for this track and in heat one I was able to capitalise on Ticktum being out for a mechanical failure. I caught up with the leaders and put up a good fight to win the race. In the second heat I ran in second but by the time I caught Daniel it was too late to pass him.
“I started the first final in pole position and led the first couple of laps until I got passed and fell to third. I was able to recover a position on the last lap to finish second which was also my starting place for the second final. This last race was a good fight. I lost a position at the start but recovered it soon and in the end I had a long battle against another rival, holding him back to cross the line second.”
