Stoffel Vandoorne stays with ART in GP2
After finishing as runner-up in his first GP2 season, Stoffel Vandoorne wants to take the final step. McLaren's protégé is staying with ART Grand Prix to fight for the title before aiming for F1.
2015 is going to be a crucial year for the young Belgian. Indeed, McLaren has chosen to temporarily sideline Kevin Magnussen in favor of Jenson Button and Fernando Alonso. However, the Dane is expected to return as a main driver in 2016 as he remains the test driver for the team.
Nevertheless, Stoffel Vandoorne could take advantage of the situation if he were to win the GP2 title. It is worth remembering that the Dane was appointed by McLaren after winning the Formula Renault 3.5 title… ahead of Stoffel Vandoorne. If he secures a victory at the end of the season, he could find himself with the opportunity for a full-time role in Woking.
Similarly, the competitive environment will clearly change compared to last season since experienced drivers like Jolyon Palmer (champion in 2014) or Felipe Nasr (signed with Sauber) will no longer be there. His year of experience will clearly work in his favor against newcomers like Frenchman Pierre Gasly or GP3 champion Alex Lynn, both joining Dams. The battle promises to be interesting with Raffaele Marciello, who will also be occupied with his tests with Sauber.
The young driver is not displaying misplaced modesty and shows his ambitions: « We have shown that we are the team to beat, and many competitors have therefore marked us as a target. It’s normal and somewhat flattering. I am confident because it will be my second year with a fantastic team that I know well. Apart from the DRS, the regulations do not change, and I now have experience with the circuits, races, pit stops, and tire management. The objective is clear: we want to win the title. »
All that remains is to deliver the same performances as at the end of the season (four consecutive pole positions) to achieve such ambitions.
With the participation of www.Racingbusiness.fr
