Ananda fifth in Formula 3

JAKARTA (JP): Young Indonesian driver Ananda Mikola failed to improve his position in the Italian Formula Three championship after finishing fifth in the seventh race of the series at the Binetto circuit on Sunday.

Starting from the sixth row, Ananda stormed into third place shortly after the flag-off. He followed up his brisk start with persistent efforts to overtake Italy's Michelle Gasparini.

Antara reported that both Ananda and Gasparini entangled on a curve, prompting a mass collision which involved two other drivers. Because his car spun off the track, Ananda, despite a quick recovery, lost his momentum and missed out on a podium finish.

Ananda earned eight points in the race to take his championship total to 51 for the fifth place overall.

The championship moves on to the Pergusa circuit in two weeks. (lnt)