Thailand’s Stuvik tipped to become future F1 driver

Sandy Nicholas Stuvik is tipped to become a Formula One racer in five years. The Thai-Norwegian yesterday signed a one-year sponsorship contract with Singha Corporation which will support him in the Formula Renault Euro Cup 2011.

Voravud Bhirombhakdi, strategic partnership and event manager of Singha Corporation, said, "He is still young and has the potential to be a good racer. I believe we will see a Thai driver in F1."

Sandy Nicholas Stuvik, right, and Voravud Bhirombhakdi at yesterday’s press conference

Formula Renault Euro Cup is a venue for the 16-year-old to hone his skills and the firm also supports Tin Sritrai in the competition, he said.

Singha has been involved more in motorsport following its successful partnership with F1 champions Red Bull.

Stuvik said the ongoing Formula Renault Euro Cup 2011 is tough but he is confident that he could be a contender.

"I only need to improve my physical fitness," said Stuvik who qualified for the circuit after winning the Asian Formula Renault title last year.

Trained by Tristan Favre at KEO Racing team, Stuvik is currently 20th in the 36-racer field after four rounds.

His best finish was 11th place in the first race at Ciudad del Motor de Aragon in Spain. With 10 rounds remaining, he is upbeat about his chance of sealing a top 10 finish overall.

If he is successful in the Euro Cup, his next step will be Formula Two or Renault 3.5.

Stuvik and his team left for Germany last night to compete at Nurburgring this weekend.