FR 2.0 NEC Austria: Mixed second day for Jehan Daruvala leads to fourth and DNF

After securing his maiden podium finish in car racing on Saturday, Sahara Force India Academy driver Jehan Daruvala had to be content with fourth and a DNF on second day of racing in Formula Renault 2.0 Northern European Cup (NEC) in Austria.

In the second race of the weekend, Daruvala passed Louis Deletraz to take second and defended masterfully, until the latter - now in his third season in the series - found a way past the Indian.

Daruvala then dropped into the clutches of Alex Gill, who passed him with a brave move to drop the 16-year-old from Mumbai to fourth place. Nonetheless, it was a great result for Daruvala who showed he’s just as good at attacking, as he is at keeping rivals at bay.

The third race, however, didn’t go according to Daruvala’s plan with the car racing rookie spinning at the second turn on the opening lap of the race.

The spin did not appear to be caused through contact with another car and was a disappointing way to end what was otherwise a very strong outing for Jehan Daruvala who, along with Arjun Maini, is aiming to be India's next representative in Formula 1 and other top-line professional motor racing championships.

He had qualified in thick of the midfield in 12th place, as compared to his second row start in the first two races. His second best lap time in the opening qualifying session would have had him starting higher up on the grid in the third race, but that time was disallowed due to all four-wheel of his car leaving the track limits to avoid colliding with another driver.

Jehan Daruvala will next be in action when the fourth round of Formula Renault 2.0 NEC series takes place at the famous Spa-Francorchamps Circuit from 25 to 26 July.