Räikkönen Robertson Racing endured a disappointing end to its Macau campaign yesterday, as top racer Roberto Streit was involved in a race stopping incident on the first lap.  Atte Mustonen also made contact with the walls, but was able to continue to the chequered flag to finish 17th.  

Michael Ho crossed the line in 20th place in his home race.   Having been among the top three drivers throughout the week, Streit finished third in Saturday’s Qualification race, the position he would take on the grid for Sunday’s 55th Macau Grand Prix.   

 As the lights went out, Streit made a strong start as the field thundered down the main straight.  In an effort to pass Edoardo Mortara, Streit moved over onto inside line.  The 24 year-old race soon came to an abrupt halt however, when he made contact with Sam Bird on the right hand side. 

With a severely damaged car Streit retired on the spot, any hopes of a podium or win disappearing.    Team mates Atte Mustonen and Michael Ho also endured eventful races, but both cars managed to continue, with the duo crossing the line in 17th and 20th respectively.   

Reflecting on his race, Streit said, “I was really hoping for a good result today, a podium, or even a win, but unfortunately it wasn’t to be.  After the start I moved over to the right hand side of the track.  I thought I could pass Mortara if I had the inside line.  I knew Sam was behind me, but I didn’t realise he was to my right as I moved across.  I’m really sorry that it ended both our races, it wasn’t in my interest to block him, I was just trying to make up places in an effort to challenge for the victory.”

Team Principal Anthony Hieatt added, “Roberto has been extremely quick all week, and it’s a great shame he didn’t get chance to show what he was capable of today.  It was always going to be difficult for Atte starting so far down the grid, it’s hard to overtake here and there’s more chance of being involved in accidents at the back.  Considering the pace we’ve shown this week, it’s been a disappointing end to this year’s event.”