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Swiss driver Andreas Lo Bue is preparing for an important step in his racing career. After several years in karting, he is now ready to step into a Formula 4 single-seater and make his debut with the professional Maffi Racing team in the F4 Central European Zone Championship. Lo Bue also has a former Formula 1 driver by his side, who supports him and offers valuable insights and advice.
Transitioning from karting to Formula 4 is a significant step. What is most challenging moving to single seater on big circuit? How are you preparing to overcome them?
Moving from karting to Formula 4 is a big step, but I see it as an exciting challenge. My main goal is to adapt quickly to this new discipline and improve every day. Single-seaters bring many changes, along with racing on bigger circuits, and adapting quickly is key. To overcome these challenges, I work hard daily, both physically, mentally, and technically. I am determined to make the most of every opportunity by carefully listening to the advice I receive and applying it as best as possible.
How did your partnership with Maffi Racing come about, and what are your expectations working with them in your debut season?
I have always had a strong relationship with Maffi Racing because they are the ones who introduced me to competitive karting. So, it was a natural decision to continue with them in Formula 4. This team has gained valuable experience in the F4 CEZ championship, and I know they have the expertise to support me in this new journey. My main goal this season is to get familiar with the car, learn, and improve throughout the year. Of course, we are aiming for good results, but the priority is to build a solid foundation to perform our best in 2025.
Jean Alesi is your mentor and oversees your activities in racing. How helpful is it for you to have former F1 driver next to you? And how did the cooperation started?
Yes, you could say that Jean Alesi is somewhat of a mentor to me. He follows my progress, gives me advice, and shares his experience with me. Our relationship in motorsport started thanks to my father, as Jean Alesi was his best man at his wedding. Before I got into karting, we had never really talked about racing. But once I started competing, we told him about my journey, and he was enthusiastic and willing to help us. Since then, he has been offering his expert insights and valuable advice when needed. Having a former Formula 1 driver by my side is a huge privilege, and I am learning a lot from him.
The F4 CEZ Championship features circuits like the Red Bull Ring and Salzburgring. Which track are you most excited to race on, and why?
The F4 CEZ championship gives us the chance to race on some amazing tracks, and I’m excited to discover them all. But if I had to pick one that really makes me dream, it would be the Red Bull Ring. It’s an iconic circuit that we see in Formula 1, and on top of that, my first F4 CEZ race will take place on my birthday weekend, which makes it even more special. Another track I am really looking forward to, even though it’s at the end of the season, is Brno. I have driven it on the simulator and found it incredible, even though some say it’s not the most exciting circuit. I can’t wait to experience it in real life!
Have you had the opportunity to test the Tatuus F4-T421 car?
I haven’t had the opportunity to test the Tatuus F4-T421 yet, but that will happen soon, and I’m really looking forward to it. From what I’ve heard, it’s an incredible car to drive, and I’m excited to discover its characteristics and start pushing it to the limit. It will be a great experience and an important step in my development.
As a young driver entering a competitive field, what are your personal goals for the 2025 F4 CEZ season?
I have always been in a competitive environment because I believe in constantly pushing myself. For the 2025 season, of course, the competition is still there, but my main goal is to learn and gain as much experience as possible. This is a completely new discipline for me, and I want to approach it step by step. I also want to enjoy this new adventure while aiming for performance, which will come naturally over time.
Looking ahead, beyond the F4 CEZ Championship, what are your long-term aspirations?
My long-term goal is to progress in motorsport as far as possible. For now, I am focused on improving in Formula 4, but the plan is to keep climbing the ranks and seize every opportunity that comes my way. Like any driver, my ultimate dream is to reach the top categories, such as Formula 1. One step at a time, but I will give it my all to go as far as possible.
Foto: Maffi Racing
