Stepping on the throttle with the Speed Academy
Look behind the scenes at work on setup
Simply being quick is no longer enough in today´s complex world of motor sport. Technical understanding, fitness, and how to handle the media properly are key aspects that affect the life of a racing driver and make a difference in the end. Maximilian Günther is in a good position in these areas: The 16-year-old has been a member of the junior squad at the Deutsche Post Speed Academy since the beginning of the year. The support programme offers its talented pupils a comprehensive and targeted training programme that covers everything needed to turn out professional motor racing drivers.
Following on from a media training session that was held in the run-up to the season opener, the second Speed Academy workshop of the year took place on Wednesday, May 14th, 2014. Together with the other participants on the trainee programme, young Maximilian visited the factory of well-known suspension specialists Eibach in the small town of Finnentrop. “Springs, dampers and anti-roll bars are very important components in the setup of a racing car,” said Maxi. “We try to find the optimum settings at each race weekend. A look behind the scenes was very interesting and I can now incorporate the many insights I´ve gained into actual work on the car.”
The workshop included detailed theory training as well as a tour of Eibach´s production facilities. A highlight of the very informative day: Maximilian himself got behind the wheel. The 16-year-old tested suspension components for optimal tuning during a training session at the ADAC Road Safety Centre in Olpe, comparing the handling of two different Eibach project vehicles. “As a racing driver, I always like a chance to step on the gas, for sure,” said Maximilian enthusiastically. “The session was great fun and I also learned one or two new things. What a brilliant experience, and many thanks to both the Speed Academy and Eibach!”
The Deutsche Post Speed Academy was established in 2004 and has since produced many popular motor racing drivers, including Formula 1´s Nico Hülkenberg and Adrian Sutil, plus DTM stars Timo Glock and Pascal Wehrlein. “Former graduates of the academy show where the path can lead and that gives me a little extra boost for my second Formel ADAC season,” said Maximilian, who has also received support during the past two years from the ADAC Sports Foundation.
Maximilian will have a chance to put what he has learned into practice in just over a weeks´ time. From 23rd to 25th May, the reigning Formel ADAC vice-champion will be at the Lausitzring, contesting a home fixture for his team, Mücke Motorsport. The third race weekend of the season should turn out well for Maximilian, who is currently placed second in the championship – in 2013, he won two races there in the ADAC junior series.
Foto: Deutsche Post Speedacademy