A record breaking fifth victory: Nikola Tsolov’s Monte Carlo Weekend Debrief

Nikola Tsolov claimed a lights-to-flag victory at this weekend’s Monte Carlo Feature Race, giving the Campos Racing driver a fifth FIA Formula 3 win.

That means the Bulgarian has the most victories in F3 history, and speaking in the paddock after the event, the Red Bull Junior reflected on a very special few days in the Principality.

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FRIDAY’S POLE POSITION

“The second to last lap I just decided to give it a little bit more. I wasn't taking much risk, but I was pushing quite hard. The tyres were in the window, they managed to cool down a little bit, the fuel was low, the track was quick.

“I was actually quite surprised when I saw the time crossing the line, but it was a good lap in general.”

FEATURE RACE VICTORY

“Coming into Monaco, I felt confident after last year, and I think the pace was definitely there. Today there were a few doubts, for the race start, as well as tyre management issues and with some issues that we faced yesterday.

“It was difficult to stay clear in my head and stay calm, but still I managed too. I chose the right start procedure, and the start was good enough to keep my position and I was just managing the tyres. I think I was pretty calm behind the wheel and I managed to pull a gap.

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“The pace was there, there were a few corners from the Sprint Race that we analysed that we were killing the tyres the most. Yesterday I was running in last, in clean air, just to see how it feels for today.

“I was pushing, just to find out how the tyres were feeling, and today I just knew exactly what to do. So I think it was probably perfectly executed in the end, and we got the fastest lap as well.”

LOOKING AHEAD TO BARCELONA

“Campos has a really good history in Barcelona with the car being quick. Obviously, it's changed this year, so we still don't know what the pace is going to look like.

“But after this weekend it will give us a boost of confidence. If we keep focusing on quali, clearly, we can fight at the top, because it's what's going to be the key in Barcelona as well.”