The fans at the Automotodrom Brno got to see one of the most spectacular races this season and two Austrians eventually won their classes – Ingo Gerstl and Chris Höher

When the Safety-Car turned to the pits and the race went to green, FORMULA Polesetter Christof von Grünigen lost the acceleration duel against lurking Chris Höher. The Austrian (Top Speed) passed the Zele Racing man and defended his lead until the checkered flag. « I am absolutely delighted with the race. It was great fun and I hope to repeat this performance on Sunday. »

Von Grünigen was less excited saying: « P2 is OK, but actually I was hoping for more. But there is another chance for me to turn tables in race 2 tomorrow. » Third-placed Salvatore de Plano, on the other hand, was all smiles: « It was great out there today. The car is amazing, so I believe there is even a bit more in it for us. »

As class standings leader Christopher Brenier had to retire his car with an electronics problem, the championship decision has been postponed. « It’s a pity, because I had a perfect start and could make up a lot of ground. However, three laps from time, there was an electronic failure. We should be able to get it sorted for tomorrow’s race. I wanted to finish every race on the podium, but that streak has come to an end. »

In the OPEN Class Ingo Gerstl outpaced his rivals at will, collecting his seventh race win of the season. « Unfortunately, Klaas Zwart is not racing here, because I am certain, we would have had a great battle. But I am of course happy about the victory, which is another big step towards securing the title. »

Behind Gerstl, Peter Milavec came runner-up. « Super fun today, really. Ingo was too fast for me, but I am really excited, I have managed to keep Frits behind me. » Thus, Frits van Eerd finished in third completing the podium. « The car good today and really wanted a podium finish. Here I am. »

The race was briefly neutralised by the Safety-Car after Wolfgang Jordan’s Benetton had lost a tyre. « When I was on the straight, everything seemed fine. But as soon as I turned the car into the corner, it spun and the rubber went off. »

Florian Schnitzenbaumer, who had great expectations for the race, had to retire with a technical failure.

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