Slovakia´s Richard Gonda will be defending his lead in the Copa classification when the European F3 Open approaches the penultimate meeting of 2013.

Despite bad luck which penalized his chances at Spa-Francorchamps, when an electrical problem forced him to retire while leading the first race with just one lap to go, Miguel Ángel de Castro´s squad leads the overall ranking and their title chances are intact.

Monza, as usual in recent seasons, is hosting the penultimate stop for the European F3 Open and its importance is key for the title. The Lombard track brings emotional memories to Drivex, because of the team was able to achieve several victories and podiums there and the team is eyeing similar performance in 2013.

In spite the fact that Gonda is a debutant at this track, it will not be a handicap because he often adapts very quickly to new circuits. After five wins, two second and third places, a positive weekend in Italy could clear the way to the title in Barcelona, where the final race takes place next month.

After free practice sessions and two qualifying sessions, both races are scheduled on Saturday and Sunday, at 15.10 and 13.30 respectively.Richard Gonda: “Monza is again another of the legendary tracks planned for this season. I can´t say a lot about this track, because I´ve never raced before there, on the other hand I was training on my simulator so I´ve obtained some references. The team and I were preparing a lot for this race and that’s why I hope for good results. I´m looking forward to racing again.”

Miguel Ángel de Castro: “It´s a circuit where Drivex, as a team, has clinched brilliant results in past seasons. In fact, back in 2009 when we were battling for title with Celso Míguez, took both victories at Monza. So I expect these previous results will be an inspiration for us.”