Dubai: Harrison Newey made it two top podium finishes in round two of the MRF Challenge at the Dubai Autodrome on Saturday. The 18-year-old British driver followed Friday’s Race 1 win here with Race 3 triumph, pipping Felipe Drugovich, and pole-setter Joey Mawson after a thrilling race. It was his third top podium finish of the series.
However, he retired in the last race (Race 4) to keep the championship race open. Mick Schumacher had a horrible day as he retired in both the races.
Mawson wrapped up the second round here with his first top podium finish of the series to keep the pressure on Newey.
Mawson currently leads the championship with 141 points with Newey on 113 and Drugovich in third on 105 points. Schumacher’s double DNF drops him to fourth place with 102 points. The next race is in New Delhi between January 27-29.
The drivers found it tough in windy conditions, with sand blowing on to the track and there were many retirements. “The race was eventful. I had really no contact with Mawon. He got off me for a bit which was strictly legal and took the lead but I got back in lead. In the end it was a good race,” Newey said.
Newey admitted he was put off by sand coming on track due to wind and the good start helped him. Indian driver Parth Gorpade finished his best here at seventh.
Results:
MRF Challenge 2016 (Race 3): 1. Harrison Newey, 2. Felipe Drugovich (+1.67), 2. Joey Mawson (+2.812)
Race 4: 1. J Mawson, 2. F Drugovich (+4.685), 3. Zane Goddard (+13.225).
