Indian motoring contingent Jehan Daruvala continued to display his driving prowess in the fourth round of the FIA Formula 3 European Championship in Hungary. The 18-year-old took a podium in the opening race of the weekend, starting from third on the grid. While Race 1 saw an impressive start, Daruvala could not replicate the results in the next two races over the weekend.
Qualifying third, Jehan maintained his position throughout in Race 1
After topping the opening practice session on Friday, 16th June 2017, the Sahara Force India Academy driver was the fourth fastest driver in the wet first qualifying, before being promoted to third after driver Joey Mawson received a penalty. Daruvala gained a slight advantage for his first race.
Jehan made a good start fighting for second place with rival Jake Hughes, but was forced wide at turn one. Nevertheless, the Carlin driver recovered quickly and ensured to keep retain the third position throughout, till the chequered flag was dropped.
Jehan was the most successful driver in Race 1 from team Carlin
For team Carlin though, it was a mixed race as drivers Lando Norris started seventh on the grid and eventually finished eighth, while Ferdinand Habsburg had a difficult race with a drive through penalty, and eventually finished in 15th place.
Jehan also emerged as the top rookie in the race
Things looked upbeat for the Daruvala with two more races to go over the weekend. However, the Indian driver saw stiff competition from Joey Mawson in both Race 2 and 3. The nature of the Hungoring circuit meant the Australian had the slight advantage in both races and Jehan couldn't pass him both times. He finished the two races in eighth and ninth places respectively. However, he has added crucial points to his overall tally, moving up to sixth place in the championship standings.
