Formula Renault 2.0
After finishing third in his debut Eurocup Formula Renault 2.0 season last year, Oliver Rowland is handling his second campaign in a highly competitive category with aplomb, having scored three wins already to lead the points. At the age of 21, the Racing Step Foundation backed driver is showing the he can match the high expectations invested in him.
The young Briton’s rise to the top of the championship standings comes after he left Fortec for Manor MP Motorsport during the close season, a move that stunned some observers, who predicted the worst for him. “The winter was tricky but we came through it,” said the current points leader.
“I can understand why some people might have doubts, but I’m focusing on my season and my future. I’m stronger mentally and physically and I’ve got a better understanding of the finer details.”
A runner-up in Formula Renault UK in 2011, Oliver Rowland had no hesitation in returning to Eurocup Formula Renault 2.0. “The FR 2.0 is a step forward and the competition is extremely tight,” he said. “If I’m going to be the best, I need to prove myself against the best. Eurocup Formula Renault 2.0 is the right choice. I’ve learned a lot and it’s time to go for the title.”
Reserved he may be, but the British racer is very much a handson member of his new team and is often on hand for technical checks, as his team principal Sander Dorsman explained: “Oliver lives close to the factory, which is good for Manor MP Motorsport and for him. He spends a lot of time preparing for meetings. That’s what’s helped take him this far and will help him grow as a driver and a person.”
Despite holding a 17-point lead over Pierre Gasly in the standings, the championship frontrunner is taking nothing for granted just yet: “Everything’s gone well so far and I’m happy to be leading. The team has done a perfect job but we need to keep our feet on the ground because there are still a lot of things that can happen.”
Aware that the stakes are high, he added: “There’s going to be a lot of pressure. Winning the title will make a big difference, and without the grant who knows what Gasly and I will be doing next year. Qualifying pace will be the key. If we can stay ahead, I’ll finish the job off no problem.”
Official Renault Sport Press Release.