Nick Cassidy enjoyed by far his best FIA European Formula 3 Championship weekend to date as he claimed two runners-up spots and his first victory of his career at Zandvoort.
The New Zealander was in great form at the Dutch circuit, also claiming his first pole position of the season for the opening race, and although he found himself relegated to second at the first corner by Prema Powerteam team-mate Lance Stroll he was able to able to comfortably retain the runners-up spot, his first podium finish since the opening race at Pau in May.
“Regarding race 1, I am lacking experience at this track, something I noticed at the start,” said Cassidy. “I wanted to close the inside line, but I didn’t pay attention to the outside.
“Lance then simply caught me by surprise with his move on the outside. After that, I wasn’t able to match his speed and I concentrated on bringing second place home.”
Cassidy made amends in race two, jumping into the lead from second place on the grid ahead of pole sitter Callum Ilott, and was able to preserve his position at the front of the field until the chequered flag for his maiden series victory.
“Taking victory in the FIA Formula 3 European Championship is a really good feeling, I am overjoyed,” revealed Cassidy. “This victory is for my team and for all those who are supporting me.
“So far, things haven’t always been going trouble-free for me this season, which was down to factors beyond my control and also beyond control of the team.
“Today, I already knew prior to the start that the first corner would probably be my only chance to overtake Callum, who was ahead of me on the grid. After that, my race wasn’t easy either, because Maximilian was quite quick behind me. Eventually, it was enough and I am really happy.”
For race three, Cassidy was unable to repeat his trick of jumping into the lead at the first corner from second on the grid, and was forced to settle for second behind team-mate Maximilian Günther.
“I am happy with this weekend and I am also happy with this race,” said Cassidy. “I started from second place and finished in the same position, so I can’t complain.”