2013 Protyre Formula Renault champion Chris Middlehurst has described his first taste of Eurocup Formula Renault 2.0 machinery as an ‘eye-opening’ experience, having tested at Circuit de Catalunya on Monday.
Middlehurst was invited to take part in a day’s running with top outfit Manor MP Motorsport as a reward for claiming this year’s Protyre Formula Renault title.
In his first session in the 2013-specification car, the 18 year old was 21st fastest out of 31 runners with a best time of 1m 47.280s. In the second session, Middlehurst improved his time by nearly a second, ending up 26th overall.
“It’s been a great experience, quite eye-opening really,” said Middlehurst, who is aiming to graduate into Formula Renault 2.0 NEC next season. “There’s quite a big step from the BARC car to the new Eurocup car, you can’t underestimate the difference – there’s a lot more grip, more power.
“I just built my pace throughout the day and I don’t think I could have expected to do more. It’s a new car to me, a new track and a new environment so overall I’m really pleased.”