Christian Merli invited to Austria

On Sunday Christian Merli will be racing his Osella FA 30 Zytek LRM at the Esthofen – St. Agatha hill climb near Linz in Austria, the 5th round of the Austrian championship. He has been invited to participate, just like in 2016 and 2017. At his debut, the Scuderia Vimotorsport driver immediately set a new outright track record in 1’03”278, and everyone is keen to welcome him back.

The Esthofen – St Agatha event
“In 2016 it was an extraordinary experience in front of an estimated 25,000 people. It was my first time on the 3.210 km track, and we managed to break the record. The year after, we set another new record in 1’02”129. I don’t think I’ve ever seen such a crowd. The race is great and very well organised. The track? Very fast, with only two bends to be taken in third gear, and a mixed section to be taken in high gears. We’re hoping for good weather, although the forecast is rather uncertain at the moment.” Two practice heats on Saturday, then on Sunday a warm-up and two race heats.

Merli’s first official appearance as European Champion and Best Performer 2021
“It makes us very happy, since we were up against a top-level driver and team. Which title has meant the most to me emotionally? That in 2018 when I also won the CIVM and the FIA Masters.”

2021 – a memorable season
“More than that. The title, and some great results despite the issues we had. I’m really very happy. I’ve won the European championship title for the third time, and I’ve also brought home the victory in the single-seater group. I’d like to thank my technical partners: Osella, LRM for the preparation of the engine, Avon for the tyres and the Scuderia Vimotorsport, who has always been close to me on this journey. Not to forget my partner Cinzia, my family, my sponsors, my mechanics Giuliano and Claudio, my friends and my fans.”

Ruth Scheithauer