In a press release today, it was announced that Peugeot Westwood would be changing their driver lineup for 2024. This comes as a shock to the paddock, as most sources believed their driver lineup would be remaining unchanged. The team have confirmed that Formula Virtual veteran Tumo Kinnumen will be hanging up his gloves after the final race of the season, retiring after competing in every season of the sport to date. The Finn had been quoted as saying the season had "forced me to reassess my priorities, and where I see my career going" in a statement prepared for this announcement. It is no secret that Tumo has struggled to extract the maximum performance from the Peugeot Westwood car this season, but the team are incredibly saddened by his departure:
"Tumo has been a part of this team through thick and thin. He joined us way back in 2014, and experienced highs and lows. Our first podium, our first win, our only fastest laps, all courtesy of Tumo. He's been exceptional and seen every era from our own engine era to Renault, to Porsche and finally Peugeot. He won our hearts and has delighted us with many memories that will be looked back on fondly forever. He's a crucial part of the history of our team, and we couldn't be sadder to see him hang up the gloves." Said Harry Westwood, team principal. He continued, "Of course, this doesn't mean the relationship is over. Since Tumo knows the team and the sport so well, he'll be moving on to a new role within the team, the details of which are to be ironed out this winter. But in the immediate future, Brazil will be his last race, and then he's taking some time off before we cross the I's and dot the T's. It's farewell for now, but certainly not forever." Westwood then went on to reveal the surprising new addition to the team, to replace the outgoing Kinnumen. "Of course, this left us needing to find a new driver within a short time frame. And luckily, we feel we've found a driver who will fit in with us perfectly. Thierry will be inheriting the number 69 car upon Tumo's departure, and racing with us for next season. But we are also pleased to announce the signing of the vice champion for 2023, Matteo Zetticci, to drive in the number 70! When we were looking around the paddock for a new driver, we couldn't believe it when Matteo's agent got back to us and told us that they had no drive in place for next season. Matteo seems to understand what we're trying to do here and was keen for a fresh start, and we're pleased be working with him moving forward." They went on to confirm that the reserve driver role would once again be fulfilled by Jochem van Snelheid, who the team say will see more practice outings in the upcoming year. For now though, the paddock prepares to say goodbye to one of the original drivers of the sport, adored by many fans and who has enjoyed a long and happy career. Westwood were unable to plan anything for the upcoming V-Prix due to technical difficulties but they have assured us that "something special is in the works".
1 Comment
BurningBlaze05
4/12/2023 06:25:12 am
Where real men (+women) cried
Reply
Leave a Reply. |
|