The PREMA Racing Team continued to make progress at its home venue in Monza and was in contention for pole since Free Practice. After topping the FP session, Ugo Ugochukwu was in the hunt for pole in the group-split qualifying. Despite topping Group A, the track improved for Group B, which meant that the McLaren Driver Development programme driver had to settle for an extremely positive P2, a great starting point for the coming weekend.
Noel Leon also delivered an impressive performance, ending up second in Group B and achieving a second-row start from P3 for the Feature Race. The Mexican, who has been moving forward together with the team, will now be chasing a strong result in both races.
Brando Badoer had a more challenging day to take P7 in his group and P13 overall. The Italian has room for improvement and will chase a strong comeback starting from tomorrow in the Sprint Race.
#1 Brando Badoer
“Not the best qualifying session in Monza, P7 in group. The pace is not bad, and there is definitely something to find in Sector 3. Everything can happen in the races in Monza, and I’m looking forward to them.”
Qualifying: P7 Group A
Fastest lap: 1:39.028
#2 Noel Leon
“Best qualifying of the year with P3 overall. I’m really happy with the car and balance. It’s been a good weekend so far for us, and I cannot wait to go into the races with the car we have. I think we can score some good points and hopefully a podium.”
Qualifying: P2 Group B
Fastest lap: 1:38.382
#3 Ugo Ugochukwu
“Great qualifying here in Monza, we topped our group and we are in P2 overall, so it was a very good day. We carried a good pace from FP, and we translated that in a positive result in Qualifying. I’m looking forward to the races. I will try to come through in the Sprint Race and go for the win in the Feature.”
Qualifying: P1 Group A
Fastest lap: 1:38.613