Mathieu Zangarelli (ART Grand Prix): “The pilot title is our priority objective” in FRECA

How did the tests for ART Grand Prix go?

From a very general point of view, the tests were very positive. We had no major problems to report. Gabriele (Mini) did the job regularly, which is very important since he is in a way our leader, or at least the most experienced driver within the team, and who will be in no doubt not doubt a suitor. It’s good to have seen him hold his place. He and we performed better at Castellet and Barcelona, ​​a little less at Monza. Laurens (Van Hoepen) is a nice surprise. It’s a very pleasant profile to work for. He is very involved and some nice objectives were defined at the start of the year with him. There is no question of putting pressure on him, he doesn't put any pressure on himself either. We give ourselves the time to do well together. It’s a nice surprise for now.

The tests seemed a little more complicated for Mari Boya, however?

Regarding Mari, the tests were a little more difficult yes, compared to his expectations and our expectations concerning him. Despite everything, when we look in detail, there are still some great things to highlight. Psychologically, he would have preferred to dominate, but he has potential. He had few elements of comparison in his team last year, and here he is directly compared to Mini, already, but also to Van Hoepen, who is a rookie who is pushing. It puts him in a more uncomfortable situation than last year, that's for sure, but I know that over time, he will learn something positive from this situation. There were a few hiccups outside of his area of ​​intervention and ours that didn't help. We also made two hulls at Le Castellet. Overall, I'm happy, because it confirms that we have a very solid and very promising line up.

What are the goals for the season?

Clearly, the pilot title is our priority objective. As I said, our line up can also allow us to play for the team title this year. I'm convinced. The fight will be fierce, there will perhaps be surprises, the season will be long. But I really think that we can position ourselves to win the team title, so that is also part of our objectives. And I won't hide the fact that aiming for the rookie title with Laurens wouldn't be totally unfounded. Even if I do not forget that there are many beginners in the category, both in quality and quantity. Laurens has a deficit in mileage and experience, but we will support him so that he is able to achieve his objectives.

ALSO READ > Mari Boya moves from VAR to ART Grand Prix