Kumho Tires helps set track record at Paul Ricard

The revised Formula 3 Euro Series that comprises three rather than two races per meeting, got off to a flying start at the Circuit Paul Ricard on the weekend 1-3 April. Not only were the teams adjusting to the new format, but also to the brand new Kumho control tire that features a stiffer construction and softer tread compound than its predecessor. One thing was clear from the outset, the new covers were capable of quicker times, and by the end of the meeting Daniel Abt of the Signature team had lowered the Series’ lap record round Paul Ricard by a staggering 0.705 seconds.

Race one was won by the Mzzzucke Motorsport driver Nigel Melker, but the meeting was really dominated by Daniel Juncadella and Roberto Merhi of Prema Powerteam and Marco Wittmann – a team-mate of Daniel Abt. As a result, the leaderboard prior to the next meeting at the end of April at Hockenheim is:

1. Daniel Juncadella (Prema Powerteam)

2. Marco Wittmann (Signature)

3. Roberto Merhi (Prema Powerteam)

It was no surprise to see Merhi in the frame, as he had topped the charts in official pre-season testing and the Prema Powerteam had very quickly learnt how to set up their cars for the new Kumho tires.

Said Kumho’s European Motorsport Manager, Steve Thompson: “The Series organizers asked us to design a tire with a more significant performance peak, coupled to a reduction in grip after just a few laps; i.e. the type of performance cycle F3’s aspiring Grand Prix drivers will need to cope with if they are to make it to the pinnacle of motorsport. It is clear we have achieved that goal and produced a faster tire into the bargain. We look forward to the next event with interest."