HMD Motorsports Sophia Flöersch says that the result in Sunday’s Firestone Grand Prix of St Petersburg presented by RP Funding race, her debut event in the INDY NXT presented by Firestone did not reflect her expectations.
The German, one of two female drivers on the grid this season started the race from 17th and came home in 12th.
Speaking to Paddock Eye on Tuesday, Flöersch said:
Unfortunately, a technical problem disrupted our run plan as early as FP1. Overheated brakes caused a spin around lap 16, which meant I was out too early in FP1. In FP2 and in qualifying we couldn’t find the right setup. Troubleshooting was difficult. For the race, we decided to try a new approach to vehicle set-up again. Without success. The race was therefore very sober. In the end it was 12th place, no mistakes made, the 45 laps completed in the best possible way. Satisfied given the circumstances. The result doesn’t reflect my expectations. It could have been better! Nevertheless, I had a lot of fun at this great event on this wonderful race track in St Pete. I would like to thank my team HMD Motorsports, all the fans, my fellow competitors on the grid, the teams and the organizers with all the helpers for the warm welcome and the successful event.
The 24-year-old spoke about her preparations and expectations for her INDY NXT presented by Firestone debut saying:
“I was really excited for the first round of Indy NXT. After spending four days in the car during test days over the past few weeks, I felt confident going into St. Petersburg. Thanks to the team and my simulator work, I tried to be as prepared as possible heading there. Based on our results during the test days, and considering my three-time participation on the best-known city courses in the F3 Macau World Cup and F3 Monaco GP, a very good result was my goal. “
Flörsch completed the full 44 lap race distance and just 2.2s away from a top ten finish.
So, what is next for Flöersch and HMD Motorsports before the next race at Barber Motorsports Park in May?
Until the next race in Barber from May 02-04, we still have one test day each in Nashville and Mid Ohio. Nashville (April 1) is my first time racing on an oval. I’m really looking forward to it. I love the speed, top speed fascinates me, it’s an extra kick of adrenaline. Then it’s off to Mid Ohio (April 27), which I’ve been told is a challenging circuit. I’m looking forward to it. If you want to follow my preparation and race weekend, you can find me on Instagram, Facebook and X under @sophiafloersch.