Double engine failure during preparation for the opening round of the Euro Formula Open Winter Series at Paul Ricard in France hindered Sean Walkinshaw on his debut in the top class.
It left the Chipping Norton driver 11th at the Le Castellet circuit, near Marseille.
Making his competitive debut with Campos Racing, an engine blow-up during the first test session set the scene for the 20-year-old’s exasperating weekend.
He re-emerged halfway through the third run and recorded the second fastest time in the final session.
Another engine failure undid the good work, and saw him qualify 13th.
He ended the race 11th, 1.5 seconds outside the top ten.
Walkinshaw said: “It has been a frustrating start, but there are some positives to take away.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article