Stanek pleased with “steps forward,” in Jerez

Still just 16-years-old, Roman Stanek hit the track in Jerez for post-season testing as one of the more experienced drivers on the grid. Turning out for ART Grand Prix, the Czech driver put to practice the lessons learned from his rookie campaign, topping the opening day.

Spending a season with Charouz Racing System, Stanek scored a highest finish of eighth with the Czech team in 2020 and is bidding for a second season in Formula 3, when he’ll want to compete at the top end.

“I gained quite a lot of experience with Charouz last year,” said Stanek. “The car with ART does feel a bit different, so I have tried to adapt my driving style a bit. I am happy about everything though and we will keep working.

“Topping the afternoon session was nice. We made good improvements during the day which is the most important thing. I was really happy with the car, the balance, and the steps forward that we made.

“I’ve really enjoyed working with ART. They’re nice and they’re hard working. I’m happy with my engineer and the communication in the team, it’s been going in the right direction.”

Stanek is not taking part in the second day of testing, though he has remained at the track and is keeping busy, watching on and gaining experience in other areas.

He continued: “I am not driving on Day 2 which is a bit sad, but I will be watching everything from the outside and trying to help the other guys as well.”