Malta-licensed Filipino driver, Zach David secures points despite rainy FRECA weekend at Zandvoort.
At the Netherlands' Circuit Zandvoort, the third event in the 2024 Formula Regional European Championship by Alpine (FRECA) was action-packed, but challenging weather conditions and several close shaves hampered Zachary ‘Zach’ David’s chances of capitalising on his promising pace, culminating in his best finish of 8th place for the weekend.
Coming off his first FRECA podium at Spa-Francorchamps just two weeks prior, the Malta-licensed Filipino driver entered the weekend with high expectations. He showed good speed early on, securing the 10th fastest time in the initial Collective Test session. In Qualifying, David steered his #20 car from R-ace GP to P5 in Group B, earning him P10 on the grid for Saturday’s race.
However, heavy rain soaked the 4.259 km track, necessitating a Safety Car start for Race 1. When the race eventually got underway with just 13 minutes left, David quickly advanced to P9. A twist in the race saw Prema Racing’s James Wharton spin ahead of David, forcing him to dodge and go off-track to avoid a collision, which he did successfully, rejoining the race in P8. A second Safety Car period ensued, and with the race resuming for the final 3 minutes, David held his position to finish P8, securing valuable championship points.
The weather improved for Sunday’s Race 2, providing David with another opportunity for a strong showing. He moved up two spots at the race start, finding himself in P12. Yet, a repeat incident with James Wharton spinning ahead resulted in David losing positions to avoid contact. Following another incident that sent him through the gravel and to the back of the pack, David showed resilience, clawing back to finish P18. Although this position didn't confer points, it underscored his determination and drive.
Zach David is set to continue his quest for results and points as the Formula Regional European Championship by Alpine (FRECA) moves to the Hungaroring for the fourth round of the 2024 championship, scheduled for June 22nd to 23rd.
Zach David: “A weekend where things didn’t seem to go our way. The overall performance has been improving, but the results at Zandvoort don’t show it yet. I’m sure our time will come, but for now we will just work as hard as we can to get the results we deserve.”
As an organisation, we are thrilled to support David to grow as a professional racer and to increase his public recognition and awareness in Europe.
This blogpost is being published strictly for informational and educational purposes, and should be correct and accurate at the time of publication. The content of this publication should not be considered as formal legal, immigration, or tax advice.
