Australian Joey Mawson dominated the opening round of the 2016 ADAC German Formula 4 Championship at the Oschersleben circuit across the weekend.

The PODIUM-backed Van Amersfoort Racing driver was the pacesetter all throughout the weekend to qualify on pole position for the opening two races, transferring both of which into convincing race victories.

Starting from tenth position in the reverse-top ten final race Mawson showed superior speed on his rivals throughout the race to edge his way forward and be placed second with a handful of laps remaining.  With clear air in front of him Mawson set the fastest lap of the race and closed in on race leader Mick Schumacher, who started sixth, but was unable to mount a challenge for the lead before the chequered flag flew.

“It has pretty much been the perfect start to the Championship.  Two pole positions after qualifying, two race wins and a second placing,” said Mawson.

“The reverse-grid race is always an interesting one but I was feeling confident going into the race and was patient during the early laps to ensure that I didn’t get caught up in any incidents.  When I got into second Mick had a three second lead, I managed to close the gap but just ran out of laps to challenge for the win.

“Our pace was great all weekend and I’m very happy to come away with three podium finishes and the lead in the Championship.”

Mawson now leads the Championship on 68 points, 19 clear of Schumacher in second with Kim Luis Schramm third on 44.

The next race in the schedule will be held at the Sachsenring on April 29 – May 1.