A last lap overtake attempt from Ralf Aron gifted Maximilian Gunther a chance at the European Formula 3 title heading into the final round of the championship.
Aron, running third after an impressive start, was on championship leader Lando Norris’ tail, after Norris picked up damage earlier in the race. The HitechGP driver tried to find a way past Norris on the final lap, only to lock up and hit the back of the Carlin driver. Both were sent into the gravel and out of the race.
The incident stopped Norris securing the 2017 title with a round in hand. Prema Powerteam’s Maximilian Gunther needed to score 10 more points than Norris to remain mathematically in the title fight at the Hockenheimring. Despite a slow start, Gunther finished fifth, taking 10 points for his efforts and keeping the title just within touching distance.
Meanwhile, Joel Eriksson drove a perfect race to take his second win of the day. The Motopark driver was chased throughout the race by Norris, but defended brilliantly to keep the Carlin driver behind him. Norris was trying to make a move for the lead when he touched the back of Eriksson’s car, damaging his own front wing and falling back.
Ferdinand Habsburg crossed the line second having spent the early part of the race battling with Aron. He was handed a five second penalty for gaining an advantage by leaving the track, which dropped him down to fourth.
Nikita Mazepin and Tadasuke Makino were promoted to the podium positions. Second equals Mazepin’s best finish of the season so far, whilst Makino’s third his first podium of the year.
Callum Ilott was taken out of the race early after a collision with Aron on the opening lap sent him into the gravel. He managed to keep moving, but headed to the pits to retire.
Pedro Piquet and Keyvan Andres Soori also collided, with Soori ending his race in the gravel and triggering a Full Course Yellow.
Behind Gunther, Jehan Daruvala and Joey Mawson, who also took a five second penalty, finished sixth and seventh ahead of Mick Schumacher and David Beckmann.
Marino Sato finished 10th to take his first point of the season.
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