ADAC Formel 4·11.7.2015

Four questions for Luca Engstler: ADAC Formula 4 is the world´s best junior series

Who is your role model in motorsport?

My father, because I can learn a lot from him. Motorsport is not just about competing in races but encompasses so many other things. I´ve learnt from my father how to treat mechanics correctly and also how to keep them motivated when things occasionally aren´t going so well. However, that´s one particular skill that I don´t have to use very often, because in our team we all pull together and I feel really at ease. Even so, my father with all his experience in motorsport is an important pillar of support for me. I talk to him after each race weekend and get his advice. In any case, motorsport is a major topic of discussion in our household.

What rituals do you follow on a race weekend?

I don´t have rituals as such. Before each outing, I run through the track layout in my head. I don´t like anyone talking to me in the last few minutes before a session, because I like to switch off and calm down. I don´t feel any pressure, but the level of competition is very high in ADAC Formula 4. It´s therefore important to get your head 100 percent around what you´re doing.

Why did you decide to enter ADAC Formula 4?

In my opinion, ADAC Formula 4 is the world´s best junior racing series. There are a lot of contestants with single-seater racing experience, and I can only benefit from that. When you´re starting out as a rookie, it´s certainly not easy to succeed against such strong competition. I can learn a lot in this series, and it´s mega fun.

ADAC Formula 4 gives the drivers the opportunity to compete in three races on a single weekend. How important is it for a young driver to accumulate the track mileage?

This number of races is great for getting into a routine and gaining race experience. Every kilometre under competitive conditions is extremely valuable. I´m learning all the time how the car responds, and that is constantly improving. The starting field in ADAC Formula 4 is very large, so the top priority in all races is to at least make it to the finish line. When you´re starting out, the results as such are not the decisive factor. I want to gain experience and work my way forward step by step.