DAVID’S MONACO PROGRESS SPARKS OPTIMISM AHEAD OF BARCELONA

Sri Lankan racing driver Yevan David leaves Monaco with renewed confidence and valuable momentum after producing an encouraging charge through the field during Sunday's FIA Formula 3 Feature Race.

Competing on the famous streets of Monte Carlo for the first time in FIA Formula 3 machinery, the AIX Racing driver climbed from 22nd on the grid to 16th on the road, executing several overtaking moves at a circuit widely regarded as one of the most difficult places in world motorsport to pass. While a post-race penalty ultimately denied David the result, the race provided a clear indication of the progress made throughout the weekend.

The Monaco event held special significance for the Sri Lankan, who carried a tribute helmet honouring Ayrton Senna throughout the weekend. The three-time Formula 1 World Champion remains synonymous with the streets of Monte Carlo, having claimed a record six victories around the Principality.

"Sunday was definitely the highlight of the weekend," said David.

"With the Senna tribute helmet on, I really embraced the feeling of racing in Monaco. Starting from P22 and finishing P16 on the road with some overtakes and good racing was really satisfying.

"I love racing and I love overtaking, but to make passes in Monaco makes it even more special. Unfortunately, the penalty dropped us back, but it was encouraging to see the pace we had and what we were capable of."

The Feature Race capped a weekend that began with David experiencing Monaco's unique challenge for the first time.

"It was absolutely surreal. From the track walk to driving those first few laps in practice, I really felt the atmosphere, the history and the energy of Monaco," he said.

"I've never felt so alive driving a circuit before. It is definitely one of my favourite tracks already. Driving so close to the walls and feeling right on the limit is an incredible experience."

While pleased with the progress made across the weekend, David believes there is still more performance to unlock from both driver and team.

"We learned a huge amount throughout the weekend," he said.

"There are areas where we can improve as a team and there are definitely things I can improve myself as well. That's all part of the process, but we could see our pace improving and that gives us a lot of confidence going forward."

With Monaco complete, attention immediately turns to Barcelona, where David will return to a circuit he knows well from previous categories and one which should provide a stronger reference point as his rookie FIA Formula 3 season continues.

"All eyes are on Barcelona now," he said.

"We'll be straight onto the simulator preparing for the weekend. It's a track I've raced at many times before and one where we can build on the momentum from Monaco.

"I'm excited to show what we can do."

The FIA Formula 3 Championship continues this weekend at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya with practice and qualifying on Friday, the Sprint Race on Saturday then the Feature Race on Sunday.

Yevan David’s racing is supported by Lion Beer 0.0%, Maliban, Dimo Group,Nations Trust Bank, and the Ceylon Motor Sports Club (CMSC).