Théo Pourchaire finished second in the Feature Race at Monaco but said post-race that he was too nice in wheel-to-wheel combat.
The Frenchman now sits second in the championship after five rounds for ART, five points behind Mercedes Junior Fredrik Vesti.
Pourchaire said: “The start was really good unfortunately some drivers are really really aggressive and I’m surprised but it’s part of the job we are doing motorsport.
“Next time I have to be a bit more aggressive. I’m too kind with others if I want to achieve my goals I want to achieve my best but P2 is really good.”
The Sauber Academy driver benefited from his compatriot Victor Martins getting a drive through penalty for failing to slow under double waved yellow flags.
Pourchaire was also battling sickness throughout the most physically demanding weekend of the year in Monaco.
“Very tough race, first physically because unfortunately, I’m a bit sick this weekend.
“It’s not ideal for Monaco, the toughest race physically and mentally but I gave my best there was a red flag in the race.
Vesti proved to be a worthy adversary for the 19-year-old on the streets of Monaco as the pair enjoy a commanding advantage at the top of the championship.
Pourchaire said: “Big congratulations to Fred (Vesti) because he got the pole first so he beat me in Monaco, he’s really fast this year so he’s one of our main contenders and we’ll have to push hard to beat him.”
The Frenchman will be hoping to take the championship lead next time out in Spain, a circuit he scored points in both races at last year.
Image: Formula Motorsport Limited
