Taito Kato’s Monza Weekend Debrief

Taito Kato and ART Grand Prix were back on form in Monza, achieving two podium finishes across the weekend.

The Japanese driver took his maiden victory in the Sprint Race, after starting in ninth, and followed that up with a run to third in the Feature.

Speaking at the end of it all, Kato reflected on a positive few days at the Temple of Speed…

DOUBLE PODIUM RESULT

“I feel amazing, it’s just incredible. Obviously last couple rounds we were missing pace, the pure pace was just missing.

“It was quite a bit frustrating for me and the team as well. So, this means a lot to be honest. Yesterday was an amazing race for me. Start from P9 to victory. I knew there would be a lot of opportunity in Monza.

“But for sure I had everything under control and then finally getting the win and my first ever in the Formula 3, feels amazing.

“Then back-to-back podiums as well is amazing. Today was more tough for me. The pace was missing I would say. But I still managed a podium, so still happy with the result overall. It was one of the most difficult races.”

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THE BACK AND FORTH NATURE OF THE RACES

“It was a bit more chaotic in the race. I was driving in P2 but then a few corners later I would be P4 or P5. Every time on the straight, three-wide on the track, it was a crazy race. But really fun to drive in the car, really enjoyable in the race.

“I was trying to keep everything under control myself. I was able to stay calm for the race and for the weekend as well. There's a lot of positive things in the race weekend, so let's keep going for next round as well.”

SIXTH IN THE CHAMPIONSHIP AND GOING TO MADRID

“I didn't focus too much on the championship. I just want to focus on the one race, and take it race-by-race.

“Each race I will just focus on my performance then let's see at end of the season. Hopefully we can end with a smile on my face.

“I think we have good confidence in Madrid because we were quite quick in the Madrid test, so I think there will be a good opportunity to fight at the front.”