Patrick Heuzenroeder once again demonstrated why he has been one of the 2025 GB3 season’s standout performers. The Xcel Motorsport driver narrowly missed out on victory in Race One at the Autodromo Nazionale Monza, finishing just over 1.6 seconds behind champion Alex Ninovic after applying pressure throughout. Despite the disappointment of falling short, Heuzenroeder’s race showcased his intelligence, composure, and determination to keep his rival honest to the very end.
After the race, Heuzenroeder acknowledged the razor-thin margin between success and second place.
“Yeah, I mean it’s tricky that three thousandths in quality means the difference between a first and second. Not much more I could have done to be honest, we’re getting to the end of straight and topping out, so there’s no overspeed to get the move into turn one.”
Despite that, Heuzenroeder still saw opportunity in forcing errors, staying close enough to threaten without overdriving the car.
“He made a couple of mistakes, but all I could do was put him under pressure to be honest and hope for the best.”
Contentment mixed with determination
Although victory slipped away, Heuzenroeder remained upbeat. He recognised the significance of the points gained and the consistency that keeps him on course for second in the championship. His perspective reflected maturity and an understanding of the long-term goal.
“But yeah, I’m still happy with second. It’s not first, but it’s good points on the boys in the championship.”
Rather than dwelling on what might have been, he immediately shifted focus toward analysing improvements for Sunday’s races.
Analysing and preparing for the next challenge
When asked about potential changes for the next race, Heuzenroeder considered the options thoughtfully. He was quick to praise the car’s balance and setup, suggesting that refinement rather than overhaul would be the right path forward.
“We’ll have to think. I think we’re pretty strong with the car to be honest. Just missed out in quality, like I said, by three thousandths.”
That reflection emphasised how competitive the front of the field has become. With such minimal differences separating first and second, finding performance gains requires precision and patience rather than sweeping changes. Heuzenroeder reiterated that he and Ninovic remain closely matched in both speed and execution.
“So I don’t think our performances are too far apart, it just means the difference between, like I said, first and second.”
