Franco Colapinto will face one of the most special challenges of the Formula 1 calendar this weekend. After achieving his best results in the category (7th in Miami and 6th in Canada), the Argentine driver will seek to extend his good streak at the Monaco Grand Prix, the first European circuit of the season.
During the days without track activity, the native of Pilar worked with Alpine to prepare for one of the most demanding competitions of the year. "It has been a very intense week of rest for the team since the Montreal race, but also very positive, as we want to maintain this good rhythm", he explained in a statement released by the French team.
The Buenos Aires driver detailed that as soon as he finished the race in Canada, he returned to the simulator to continue fine-tuning the car. "The Monday after the race I went straight to the simulator and worked hard with the team before making a quick visit to Paris on my birthday, which I suppose you have already seen! After that I went straight back to Enstone to spend more time with the team and prepare for the start of the busy European season and Monaco, one of the best races of the year", he noted.
On the other hand, Colapinto particularly highlighted the appeal of racing on the streets of Monte Carlo. “The street circuit is one of the most exciting for a race driver, with the barriers so close; I am very eager to see what it feels like with this year's cars, lighter and more agile. I live in Monaco, so I have seen how they set up the circuit when I was at home, and I can't wait to hit the track myself in the first free practice session on Friday", he commented.
Unlike the last races, this weekend will return to the traditional format with three free practice sessions before qualifying, something that Colapinto considers an advantage to gain confidence and adapt the car to the demands of the circuit.
In this regard, he emphasized what will be the key moment of the weekend. "It's exciting to go faster and, since overtaking is so difficult on this circuit, Saturday is probably the most important day of the whole year", he assured. Aware of the importance of starting ahead in Monaco, the Argentine made it clear what Alpine's goal is for the race. "It's going to be a busy weekend, and our goal is to finish in the top ten again and continue with our solid performance", he concluded.
When Colapinto Returns to Race
After his historic sixth place in Canada, Formula 1 will cross the pond and land at the urban circuit of Monaco, where the Argentine finished thirteenth last season. The race in the principality will take place in two weeks, between Friday, June 5, and Sunday, June 7.
Monaco Grand Prix Schedule
