Driver comments from the Race 1 Coppa Shell podium at Spielberg
Spielberg, 13 May 2023 – Unstable weather conditions made the Coppa Shell Race 1 particularly tricky yet thrilling. In the end, Ernst Kirchmayr in the Coppa Shell and Motohiko Isozaki in the Coppa Shell Am claimed the top steps of the podium.
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Ernst Kirchmayr, winner of Coppa Shell: “An unforgettable day for me, winning on my home circuit is exciting but also difficult: the last time was three years ago, it rained then too, I remember it well. The weather conditions today were really difficult. Moreover, I started from third place and to reach first position I had to overtake two drivers who were driving very well. I also had to gamble, but in the end, I managed it and I think I had a good race.”
Alexander Nussbaumer, second place Coppa Shell: “It was a good race, I was leading in first position and had everything under control. At one point, Kirchmayr tried to overtake and I tried to fend him off but I didn’t imagine we would come into contact. I preferred to give up because I didn’t want that contact to turn into an accident. It was a good race and I’m satisfied with the runner-up spot.”
Axel Sartingen, third place Coppa Shell: “A race in difficult conditions, on a wet track that dried out as the laps went by. After the initial Safety Car, I struggled to fend off the attacks of those following me, who managed to overtake me. At that point I preferred not to take any risks. I am satisfied with how things went, because they are precious points for the championship.”
Motohiko Isozaki, winner of Coppa Shell Am: “I won and that made it an incredible day. The circuit is very difficult and I had to work hard for it, but hard work and a little bit of luck paid off and gave very good results. I dedicate the victory to Japan, to my friends at Ferrari and I thank the whole Ferrari team.”
Kirk Baerwaldt, second place Coppa Shell Am: “I am a bit bitter about my second place because I would obviously have liked to win. The goal is to do it tomorrow.”
Tommy Lindroth, third place Coppa Shell Am: “I am comfortable racing in the rain because, living in Sweden, I am used to even worse conditions like snow. I would especially like to thank my coach Fabienne.”