6
“
ALPS - perfect
for a rookie”
Interview with
Afa Heikkinen
L
Last year, on their debut in F.Renault ALPS, they immediately won the drivers' title with Daniil
Kyvat, but no one was really surprised: after all, it hardly seems appropriate to use the word
“
debutant” to describe Koiranen GP, given their long association with F.Renault 2.0. In the past,
they unearthed and developed the talent of Valtteri Bottas, and they won the Eurocup in 2010
with Kevin Korjus as well as the NEC the year after with Carlos Sainz Jr, demonstrating a
consistency at the highest level that has seen them become one of the top teams competing in
junior level formula racing. As of this year, they are also involved in GP3, but the Finns have
also decided to participate in the ALPS competition organised by Fast Lane Promotion again
this year, partly to defend their crown, although not only: Team manager, Afa Heikkinen,
explained the reasons behind this decision during a brief pause, as team preparations reached
fever-pitch on the circuit at Spa.
"
We’re very pleased with ALPs. First of all, it’s very well organised, and that gives us a sense of
security, because the competition is at the same level as the other international competitions
we’re involved in, but with that welcome touch of warmth that Italians are renowned for.
Moreover, we think it's a very valid formula for young drivers".
