Bianca Bustamante, a race car driver from the Philippines, expressed her excitement about achieving her first podium finish in 2024 during Race 2. This achievement came after a difficult Race 1 at the Miami International Autodrome, where she faced setbacks. Despite stalling at the start of Race 1, Bustamante managed to make an impressive recovery, climbing from the back of the pack to finish in ninth place, despite receiving a penalty. However, she made a strong comeback in Race 2 and secured her first podium finish of the season.
Reflecting on her performance, Bustamante stated, “We made thorough preparations for the Miami race, both on the simulator and on the track. I spent a significant amount of time at MTC before the race week, ensuring that I had no regrets when leaving Miami. I prepared myself and put in the necessary work, so I have no regrets.”
She also expressed her satisfaction with her performance in Race 2, saying, “I feel like I have regained my confidence. I had a great start and a good launch. I almost went for the lead, but I decided not to take unnecessary risks going into T1.”
Looking ahead to Round 3 in Barcelona, which will take place from June 21st to 23rd, Bustamante is determined to continue her streak of podium finishes. As she has previous experience racing at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, she aims to challenge the current Championship leader, Abbi Pulling.
“It’s a track that I am very familiar with,” Bustamante remarked. “Last year, I showed good pace but made a mistake and stalled, which was unfortunate. However, I want to rewrite that story. We want to maintain this momentum and hopefully improve our position in the standings in Barcelona.”
Currently sitting in fifth place in the 2024 F1 Academy Drivers’ Standings, Bustamante’s next goal is to surpass Chloe Chambers, who is the Haas-nominated driver and finished Race 1 in third place.