Q&A: Fabrizio del Monte.

The Superfund Euro 3000 series faces two critical back-to-back rounds over the next two weekends, with the races at Dijon and Zolder likely to play a big part in determining who will claim the title.

Italian Fabrizio del Monte is currently in the lead of the series, following his three-win salvo at the start of the year, and enjoys a nine-point advantage over closest rival Nicky Pastorelli. The Italian failed to make the podium for the first time at Donington Park, posting a rare retirement, and is well aware that his coronation is far from assured.

Q:
Fabrizio, how do you prepare yourself for these back-to-back events?

Fabrizio del Monte:
As usual, I prepared myself to be 100 per cent physically at my peak and, together with the team, we worked on optimising the car, particularly the braking system. These two back-to-back races will be very demanding and we have to give our best because both Dijon and Zolder can be crucial for the championship.

Q:
A championship that, at the moment, has you in the lead.....

FdM:
That's correct - but I can't put my guard down. We had three great victories at the beginning of the season, followed by two other well deserved podiums. Then came the first blow at Donington, when I had to retire after being hit and getting a bent suspension. Now it is time to get back to winning precious points again.

Q:
Who are the adversaries that you fear the most?

FdM:
Pastorelli is right behind me and he will do anything to win the next few races. [Bernhard] Auinger is also proving to be very good, and he's fighting for the championship as well. Whatever the case, the drivers in the series are high quality drivers and anyone can be a threat.

Q:
Are you planning a particular tactic for Dijon?

FdM:
We are not going to France to only protect and defend our position .We are going to Dijon to do our best and win. Monza has taught me that those who start on the front row don't get involved in as many accidents as those who start from behind. So we will push hard during the qualifying session. My adversaries have grown in the last few weeks and they will put up a great battle. Getting a good result at Dijon and Zolder will also be important psychologically.