Frenchman endured a gruelling baptism of fire at Gateway
Theo Pourchaire has admitted to feeling mentally exhausted after making his oval racing debut at Gateway last weekend.
The ART Grand Prix driver, who is currently third in the Formula 3 standings, took part in the Indy Lights race on the 1.25-mile oval as part of an exchange programme between the two championships.
Pourchaire qualified a creditable eighth for the race, but he dropped down the order in the early stages and eventually finished 15th.
The Frenchman said that he found the race to be a completely different experience to anything he had done before.
It was a lot more physical than I expected, he said. I was really tired after the race.
The biggest challenge was the G-forces. I’m not used to them at all, so my neck was really sore after the race.
I also found it difficult to judge the distance to the other cars. I was always worried that I was going to hit someone.
Overall, it was a tough race, but I learned a lot. I’m glad I did it, but I’m also glad it’s over!
Pourchaire’s Indy Lights debut was part of a wider FIA initiative to promote cross-over opportunities between different racing disciplines.
The Frenchman is the first F3 driver to race in Indy Lights, and he is hoping that his experience will help him when he eventually makes the step up to Formula 2.
I think it’s important for drivers to experience different types of racing, he said. It makes you a more versatile driver.
I’m grateful to ART Grand Prix and the FIA for giving me this opportunity. I learned a lot this weekend, and I’m sure it will help me in my future career.
Praise for Pourchaire’s performance
Despite his 15th-place finish, Pourchaire’s performance was praised by many in the Indy Lights paddock.
Andretti Autosport driver Robert Megennis said: Theo did a really good job. He was quick all weekend, and he showed that he can race hard.
It’s not easy to come to an oval for the first time, but he adapted very quickly. I think he has a bright future in oval racing.
Dale Coyne Racing driver David Malukas added: Theo is a very talented driver. He showed that he has the potential to be a winner in Indy Lights.
I think he would be a great addition to the series full-time.
Pourchaire is not the only F3 driver to express an interest in racing on ovals. His teammate, Oscar Piastri, has also said that he would like to try it in the future.
Kind regards
A. Guthof.