The 2016 French F4 Championship finished in early November on the Barcelona circuit. Despite his lack of knowledge of the Spanish circuit, Hugo Chevalier showed his talent by finishing 2nd and 4th in succession in the first two races. Although a retirement in Race 3 caused him to lose valuable points in the French Junior Championship, he finished in 4th position, and Hugo can draw a very positive assessment of his debut in single-seaters.
The first season in cars after a rest period from karting was both significant and difficult, with a lot to learn as a driver in a single season. Hugo Chevalier passed this test with great application and verve. “I finished the season as I started, with a podium,” Hugo rejoiced, happy to shine on the prestigious Circuit de Catalunya. “I had to learn the track in free practice, but I quickly had a good feeling.” This was confirmed with the 4th fastest time just three tenths off pole position, despite difficult grip conditions. “I was very comfortable on the wet track, but it dried up as the laps went on.“
A second place attained after a fight
Hugo Chevalier made a great start in Race 1 and was soon in the fight for the podium. After intense fighting, the Haut-Savoyard finished in 2nd position. With his mind in good shape after excellent work with his coach Didier André, Hugo continued his momentum in Race 2 which is always very tricky to negotiate. Indeed, the grid is formed by reversing the finishing order top drivers.
Again, his start from 9th position was perfect. After a remarkable attacking race, he found himself in 4th at the chequered flag. “My only regret was having to contend with bad brake distribution, which caused excessive tyre wear.” And it would have repercussions for the next race …
Valuable experience
“I knew Race 3 would be more difficult, but the goal was to gain as many points as possible, because more drivers were able to aim for the podium overall. Alas, I crashed and had to retire on the last lap!” Finally Hugo Chevalier concluded his 2016 season in 4th place in the French Junior Championship, and 6th overall.
“In any case, this year with the Auto Sport Academy has been very positive. I feel ready to climb the ladder, strengthened by all this experience in 2016. The goal is now to make the right choices for 2017, both with the category and the team. Testing is scheduled for this.“
In October, Hugo Chevalier also proved its ability to adapt with very good test driving a powerful GT. He had the opportunity to shine during a race in Midjet and even win in the Fun Cup. Hugo Chevalier is more determined and ambitious for the future than ever!
Summary of Event 6/6 – French F4 Championship in Barcelona, Spain (4th-5th-6th November 2016) … Qualifying: 11 – Race 1: 2nd – Race 2: 4th – Race 3: DNF – French Junior Championship: 4th (6th overall)
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