Mathieu Zangarelli: “The set really looks good”

What do you think of this merger?

First, it has the merit of making the championship stronger and more committed. There will be a field of thirty-two cars. It will push everyone up, so we can only see it in a positive light. Organizationally, we were not disrupted by the merger. The management team is largely that of the Formula Renault, in addition to other people notably from the ACI (Automobile Club of Italy. Ed.), who are also very supportive.

Was this merger essential?

Yes. I remain convinced that in Europe today, we do not have the sufficient pool to supply several championships of the same level. This can still be understood in F4, as long as the boards are able to be filled. But in Formula Regional, the amounts are already higher, so the decision to group the two championships was the right one. The board really looks good.

You won both the Drivers' and Teams' Eurocup titles in 2020. With thirty-two drivers on the grid and twelve teams now, it's going to be much more difficult this year...

Yes it's clear. Just look at the differences during collective testing. The rankings were very close. For a tenth in qualifying, you can lose 6 or 7 places on the grid, which can change the face of a weekend, knowing that this is a category where it is difficult to overtake, due to the technical regulations. in force. The general level is very high, which is a good thing.

Before the start of the season, there were 6 days of testing. What is your assessment?

Our test sequences were rather positive. We have an experienced driver in the team with Grégoire Saucy, who held his position by playing up front regularly. It is one of the titratable potentials. He's a boy who was already with us last year and who brings stability. It's important, because next door, we have two promising young people, Gabriele Mini and Thomas Ten Brinke. Obviously, they have a lot to learn, but I remain confident that they can quickly tickle the repeaters.