P4 in the Melbourne Sprint gives Boya confidence ahead of Feature Race

Mari Boya is taking plenty of confidence from his drive to fourth in the Melbourne Sprint Race into Sunday’s Feature event given the strong form shown by him and his Campos Racing team.

The Spaniard lined up in P6 for the Sprint Race, the same position he will start from on Sunday, and had a solid outing, making his way forward to fourth by the halfway mark.

He then pushed ART Grand Prix rookie Laurens van Hoepen all the way until the chequered flag for the final spot on the podium but was ultimately forced to settle for P4. Despite not making the podium, Boya was more than happy with the Melbourne contest.

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“I think it was a really fun race to watch especially for the people,” said Boya. “I would say the Safety Car at the end did not help us a lot because I was starting to get closer to the guys on the podium.

“But anyway, I am happy with the work the team have done, but also happy because I was the only guy at the front with used tyres.

“So, this gives me a lot of confidence for tomorrow starting also P6, so let’s learn about this race and try to get a podium or even a win for tomorrow.”

Boya and Campos were left a little frustrated by their opening round showing in Sakhir, with both parties believing there was more pace in the tank than their P15 Qualifying result in Bahrain, as well as their P8 in the Sprint Race and 29th in the Feature.

The Spanish racer says their pace going back to the 2023 post-season tests as well as the 2024 pre-season test in Sakhir has always been amongst the best.

“I think the car is super good,” added Boya. “We have been consistently in the front in all the testing. Bahrain Qualifying was an exception, but we understand what happened there so now we keep working and the good results are about to come.”

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But turning his attentions to the present, Boya’s next challenge will be in the Melbourne Feature event. While he was keeping his cards close to his chest regarding plans for the race, he did admit that he was confident about his chances on Sunday, saying that he already had a good idea of how he will be attacking things come lights out.

“Let's see. It's hard to say,” said Boya when quizzed on what is possible. “Let's analyse a bit how this race went. But I feel comfortable, and I feel more or less like I have a plan for tomorrow, how to approach the race and let’s see if I can get an advantage.”