Of the 10 events on the calendar of the 2018 Formula Renault Eurocup, the one organised in Monaco is undoubtedly the most prestigious. And it was here, on the streets of the Principality, that Charles Milesi achieved a great feat by winning the race that supports the Formula 1 Grand Prix. Already 2nd on Saturday, the young Bourguignon driver took the best result of the meeting, going up to the 3rd place in the general classification and 2nd in the rookies!
“To win at Monaco is magic! The circuit is at once very demanding, but incredible. We are close to the rails at every corner, so it takes a lot of concentration, precision and confidence,” commented Charles after his impressive exercise of style at the foot of the rock. For the R-Ace GP driver, the Monegasque driver started in Group B with a fantastic pole position in 1’30 “682. “Sector by sector, I managed to improve my lap times, until I found great pace and achieved the fastest Qualifying time. Honestly, I did not expect to achieve such a performance! It is certain that in Monaco, starting at the front really is an advantage.“
Two podiums, including a victory
On Saturday in Race 1, Alex Peroni (who had the fastest time in group A with 1’31″143) managed to keep his advantage over Charles Milesi. “From the start of the race, my rivals put pressure on me, I really needed to keep up a good speed without making mistakes to ensure the 2nd place. The car was really effective, I even finished with the fastest lap in the race.” Once again, Charles finished as the top French driver, top Rookie and holder of the best result of the team.
The next day, Charles knew that the start would be one of the keys to Race 2. After an excellent start from pole position, he resisted Alex Peroni to lead at the bend of Sainte-Devote and lead the pack in the climb to the casino. The white and black car of the Frenchman was literally imperial at Monaco, from Mirabeau to La Rascasse, through the tunnel, or the “S” of the Pool.
A remarkable success before the F1 Grand Prix
Charles Milesi confirmed his domination and mastery in Monaco with a new lap record. “I still needed to manage the degradation of the rear tyres so as not to risk sliding too much and touching the rails. But finally, everything went well. Going on to the first step of the podium in front of the many Monegasque public and all these personalities, it will remain a great memory. In a career, a victory in Monaco where everyone in Formula 1 is present, is important.“
After his magnificent victory at Silverstone last weekend, Charles again scored big points in the Eurocup, where the young 17-year-old prospect is now in 3rd position, as well as 2nd place of the rookies. He will consider the rest of the season with ever stronger motivation…
© Photo DPPI / Renault Sport