In a rainy battle at the Motorland Aragon, Luciano Bacheta was able today to not only score his first place on the podium but also to drive the fastest lap in a gripping catch up chase. With third place in the first ratings run, the Brit also gave his team Interwetten.com Junior Team the first podium place in its Formula Renault 2.0 Eurocup debut.
„I would like to thank the entire team and in particular our mechanics, working day and night for the past few weeks to get the cars perfectly prepared for the first race in little time. Luciano, with his fantastic performance and dedication, rewarded himself and every single team member“, reports team leader Michael Schneider, visibly contented. “We are delighted with this succesful start into the season.“
Bacheta, starting in place twelve, pushed right from the beginning. “After all, I had many vehicles to overtake” the 19 year old explains, grinning. “Today’s race was real fun. I worked my way to the front lap by lap and finally made it to place three.” For Luciano, who had already took part in the Eurocup in two seasons, one with Hitech Junior, one with Epsilon Sport, this was his first podium success. “I am thrilled with my first podium place!”
His German team colleague Craig reiff crossed the finishing line in 14th place. “Of course this is not the result I was hoping for, but you need to stay realistic with the first race after a long break”, says the 18 year old who took a break from motorsports last year to fully focus on his school exams. “I am optimistic that I will be able establish a place in the top 10 during the course of the season.”
Tomorrow, Luciano will start the race from position ten and Craig will be starting from 16th position. “Obviously, it would be nice to repeat Luciano’s catch up from yesterday”, hopes chief engineer Harvey Spencer.