Felipe Drugovich survived “crazy” pressure in Monaco to take his third Feature Race victory this season, and extend his lead in the FIA Formula 2 Championship.
The Brazilian driver lined up in pole position, and led the Feature Race from start to finish. However, his Sunday was far from straightforward, as his closest title rival Théo Pourchaire filled his mirrors, desperate to find a way past in the closing laps.
During the post-Feature Race press conference, the MP Motorsport driver spoke about how intense the pressure was:
“I cannot even explain that [pressure]. It’s so tough physically, the steering was really heavy. Towards the end it was just crazy; I knew I couldn’t make any mistakes.”
Summarising his race, Felipe said:
“The battle today might have been great to watch, not so great inside the car for me! I had so much rear and front deg, the car was on ice the whole time.”
Drugovich’s drive was reminiscent of his compatriot Ayrton Senna’s heroic defence against Nigel Mansell around the streets of Monte Carlo in 1992, and his helmet featured a tribute to the three-time world champion who achieved a record six wins in the principality.
“It’s really special. I think I had to think about him during the race just to get some extra speed. After the race you think about it, and it makes it even more special. I’m just so happy.”
The Championship leader took his third win in just one week, and now has over a 30-point advantage over Pourchaire. Despite winning both the Sprint Race and Feature Race in Barcelona during the previous round, Drugovich said he did not expect to be competing for the win in Monaco:
“We came here this weekend thinking this was going to be out weak point in the season but managed to turn it around and find a good set-up. I’m really thankful for the team.
“I might be at the peak of my confidence now. Everything has gone smoothly overall this year.”
Drugovich, who is in his third – and likely final – season in F2, will hope to continue the strong form he has shown so far this year when Formula 2 returns to another street circuit in Baku for the next round.
Image: Formula Motorsport Limited
