ADAC German Formula 4 – Aberdein leaves Oschersleben third

South Africa’s Jonathan Aberdein was on the podium twice in three races to move into and early third in the German ADAC Formula 4 Championship following the first round over the weekend.

Aberdein missed Friday’s first session as a result of the SAA cabin attendant’s strike delaying his arrival in Germany, but the Cape Town driver bounced back to qualify sixth before delivering two third places to leave Oschersleben in a strong third position in the early championship chase.

“It was a good start to the season,” Jonathan confirmed. “We were on the back foot with the car and tyre wear issues throughout the weekend, so I’m really happy as the result was better than expected. “Qualifying went OK – we were sixth, but one-tenth quicker would have seen us on the front row – it’s all about timing the perfect lap in traffic.

“I had a very good first race of the season though – I had really good pace toward the middle of the race, but the tyres went off as the race developed and I had to resort to some defensive driving to get onto the podium, so I was delighted to start with a top three. “The second race was tough, but I scored some important points in 8th.

“Then I had an awesome start in the final and the top two managed to fall off in turn 1, so I jumped from 8th to third, but I knew I needed to look after the tyres and I opted to manage the rear tyres as best I could. “A couple of safety car periods helped, but the rubber at the back was finished at the end, so I was really happy to finish third again.

“To score two podiums this weekend and to leave there third in the championship chase and not far off the lead is pretty solid considering that we never quite got the set up right. “My Motopark team put in a great effort and it was a good start to season – the next round will be much better.”

The second round of the ADAC German Formula 4 Championship is at Lausitzring 20-21 May.