Felix Rosenqvist says losing at Macau wasn't an option

Macau Grand Prix winner Felix Rosenqvist says losing was not an option if he was going to keep his motor racing career moving forward.

The Swede has endured a difficult season in the Formula 3 European Championship and knew that success was essential this time to not become a forgotten man.

"In 2012, I finished second behind Antonio [Felix da Costa]. Last year I only came 100 metres down the straight before I had to retire, so starting three times on the front row here, this time finally everything worked out," said the Mucke Motorsport driver.

"When I woke up [on race morning] I said it has to be today, I have no other chance I think."

Although disappointed by his results in F3 this year, he reckoned the Macau result was essential to prove to the world he still has what it takes to be a top-line driver.

"It is quite hard to keep believing in yourself during a season like this, when you sometimes struggle to keep it in the top 10," he said.

"Now I have proven to myself that I haven't become slower, I haven't unlearned anything.

"I just had a tough year that everyone goes through at times, so that feels very important and very good to prove to anyone.

"All the big ones have gone through something like that. To be strong you have to go through some tough shit. That is important for every athlete, and I feel a lot stronger now."

STUPIDITY A HELP

Rosenqvist has proven himself to be a bit of a street circuit specialist this year - triumphing at Pau and taking pole position at the Norisring.

Speaking about why he is so strong, he reckons his 'stupidity' in enjoying risks is a big help.

"From the first time I drove a street circuit I was always good," he said. "I think some people are just good at street circuits, with a different driving style.

"The road is V shaped and you have to stay on the right place all the time, stay away from the bumps. It is very different from driving around Hockenheim which is difficult in a way.

"But also I am a little bit stupid. I am like an adrenaline junkie, and that certainly helps me around very hairy tracks!"