Balthasar: “I have learned a lot!”
He is the youngest winner of the Trophy ranking of the ATS Formula 3 Cup. Sebastian Balthasar, who is just 17 years of age, achieved a fantastic result. After 27 races he had a 74-point lead over his team-mate from GU-Racing. The student from Cologne also took an excellent tenth place in the overall standings. Now he will continue his way to the top. It is time to take stock with Sebastian Balthasar.
How do you feel as the 2013 Champion of the Trophy ranking?
“The season was fantastic. We had great racing weekends. The championship title is really special. It was our goal, and we achieved it. I’m very happy about that.”
What do you think of your competitors?
“We collaborated well throughout the season and found a good set-up for the car. I would like to thank GU-Racing for doing such a great job! We would not have achieved this result without the team.”
Do you have a personal highlight of the season?
“The Sachsenring, surely. That was a highlight! I started from pole and was in reach of the podium almost until the end of the race. Anyway, I am very pleased with the fourth place in the overall standings. My car does lack in power after all. The track is very demanding and there was basically no opportunity to practice beforehand. Therefore, everybody started off under the same conditions. We were able to demonstrate what we are capable of!”
Do you keep an eye on the “big boys” contesting the Cup ranking?
“You definitely try to watch them and to get involved in battles. I succeeded several times, at Lausitzring for example, where the top speed does not matter. We had a really good chance there.”
Do you consider the ATS Formula 3 Cup your general qualification for motorsports?
“I have learned a lot! Finding the rhythm, driving consistently and pushing the car to the limit at all times was crucial. I proved that I was able to do just that right from the start. A Formula 3 vehicle is a very demanding car and I handled it well. The ATS Formula 3 Cup is the stepping stone for higher classes.”
Where will we see you in 2014?
“We have no fixed plans yet but aim to contest the Cup ranking. The second option would be the FIA Formula 3 European Championship, but we have not made a decision yet. I am confident that we will be competitive in the European Championship.”
Thank you for talking with us and all the best for 2014, Sebastian!