27 May 2012 Dream weekend for Sam in Monaco
Sam Bird (I.S.R.) denied his opponents even a sniff of success in the streets of
Dream weekend for Sam in Monaco
27 May 2012
Sam Bird (I.S.R.) denied his opponents even a sniff of success in the streets of Monaco, leading the weekend’s proceedings from free practice to chequered flag.
The Mercedes AMG F1 Team driver claimed victory in the principality ahead of Jules Bianchi (Tech 1 Racing) and Alexander Rossi (Arden Caterham), and finishes the meeting top of the Formula Renault 3.5 Series championship.
He said: “Everything went like a dream. It’s an impressive thing to win in Monaco, so I’m a bit emotional. Huge credit must go to the I.S.R. team, who have done a brilliant job. We’re top of the championship this evening, but that’s not the most important part - there’s still such a long way to go.”
Under sunny skies in Monaco, the curtain-raiser for the 70th Formula One Grand Prix in the principality got under way with Sam lining up on pole on a grid packed with drivers and famous names from the world of motorsport and Formula One.
Sam got away quickest as the lights went out and held the lead, with Bianchi passing Rossi to move into second. The pair began to quickly pull away from the chasing pack, which was unable to keep up with the pace set by the leader.
The I.S.R. racer kept his rival firmly behind him all for the whole contest, taking victory by almost 2.7secs.
Earlier in the weekend, Sam had topped both free practice and qualifying, setting a time a full second faster than anyone else in his qualifying group.
He said: “I’m very pleased to be back on pole here – huge credit to everyone at I.S.R. This car is great to drive on the streets of Monaco.”
Sam Bird (I.S.R.) denied his opponents even a sniff of success in the streets of Monaco, leading the weekend’s proceedings from free practice to chequered flag. 
