Budapest 04/08/2007
Budapest Race 1
A race to forget for the Super Nova Team, as both drivers regrettable take early retirement from today’s GP2 Budapest Feature race, earning no points.
Italian driver Luca Filippi made a slow start, yet his fate was sealed when he made contact with Nicolas Lapierre, bending the suspension of his car. He persevered with determination, but unfortunately the damage was done & the wishbone of the car broke on the exit of the last corner and he lost control, spun several times and hit the barrier, taking him out of the race.
Team mate Mike Conway made every effort to improve his positioning, and while attempting to pass several cars on the outside in turn two, unluckily hit some dirt on the track which spun him. In third gear he unfortunately stalled attempting to rejoin. This saw the end of his race.
British driver Adam Carroll (Petrol Ofisi) stormed through to win this afternoon, followed by Japanese driver Nakajimi for DAMS, & iSports Zuber in third.
Team Principal David Sears “Luca made a slow start and dropped from 7th to 15th. A few laps in he had an episode with Nicolas Lapierre, bending his suspension. Rather than pitting he continued which resulted in his wishbone breaking, he lost control and hit the barrier resulting in a safety car. Mike Conway was trying hard to pass several cars, but unfortunately he went off and stalled ending his race on the spot. At the moment we really need some point finishes to regain our championship position in three weeks in Istanbul. ”
Mike Conway “I made a mistake. I went round the outside of turn two and hit some dirt. I spun and while trying to get going again, I stalled. It ended there for me unfortunately”
Luca Filippi “It was an exciting race if nothing else! I was passing Lapierre when we had a little contact, which we think broke the left rear wishbone. I managed to continue for a bit, but the vibrations got worse and lost control. I think we will be able to repair the car for tomorrow, but we will be starting from the back.”