A Finnish formula 4 driver, Luka Sammalisto had a whirlwind seven-week recovery period filled with the events unfolding behind the scenes: team meetings, simulator tests, test days and future planning sessions… The experience from the July event is now a chapter of resilience. Showcasing Sammalisto’s attitude, determination, and tenacity in both life and motorsports.The Japanese saying goes, “Fall down seven times, stand up eight!” For the promising young driver from Finland, the focus is now on the present moment, the remaining races of the season, and future ambitions. His mantra from karting days, “Never give up!” remains stronger than ever. The Formula4 season continues, the dream lives on, and the dedicated work towards achieving those dreams never stops.
– A massive shoutout to the incredible sponsors and partners who have stood by me through thick and thin! Their continued support and belief in my racing career mean a lot for the motivation and ongoing success.
Two weeks ago, Sammalisto dusted off his racing uniform and hit the Red Bull Ring for the F4 Euro series weekend. Originally, the F4 Euro series wasn’t in his race schedule, but strategic discussions with his manager, Giovanni Minardi, led to the decision to participate.
– Spielberg is a track raced in higher formula classes (FRECA, F3, F2). Luka’s participation in the Austrian race weekend was a carefully considered strategic decision. Another key reason was that the Italian series resumes only this coming weekend in Barcelona, so getting Luka race ready before Barcelona was seen as positive. – Giovanni Minardi
Red Bull Ring is notorious for its challenging and rapidly changing weather conditions, and the F4 Euro series weekend was no different. The cold, almost winter-like (+5°C) temperatures throughout the weekend added to the challenge.
In the first qualifying session, Sammalisto secured a P8 finish, meeting his goals. However, tire pressure and grip issues hampered the second session, resulting in P19 (QP2) and P20 (QP3) finishes.
– I couldn’t get the tires to work optimally, and the grip was poor. Without grip, the driving feel is not good.
The first race was on slick tires despite parts of the track still being wet, making the grip nearly non-existent. Sammalisto had a great start, but a water puddle in the first corner slowed him down. On the second lap, he experienced an unexpected challenge when drivers ahead went off into the gravel, resulting in a spray of stones. One unfortunate rock hit Luka’s finger so hard that he couldn’t hold the steering wheel due to sudden pain, ending his race.
Both second and third races were driven in rainy conditions. Starting from mid-grid, the rain and poor visibility made it difficult to aim for top 10 finishes, resulting in P17 and P18 placements.
– The weekend was challenging, but returning to the track feels really good. We learned a lot and were able to develop the car and settings, especially in rainy conditions.
The F4 Italian Championship resumes this weekend in Barcelona, marking the penultimate race weekend of the season.
– The goal is to make this weekend the best of the season, a complete and successful return race. We’re aiming for maximum points—the more we get, the better and of course, the more fun!
