Macau is a land of many traditions, but there’s one in particular that catches our attention during Grand Prix month—a tradition of talent behind the wheel, on the asphalt, in speed.
The latest revelation is, without a doubt, Tiago Rodrigues, a young driver born and raised in Macau. The reigning champion of the Chinese FIA F4 Championship, where he showcased his speed and strategic sense, Rodrigues embraced a new challenge in the UAE F4 Championship, once again demonstrating his growing talent.
– How would you assess your performance at the 2023 Macau Grand Prix?
Tiago Rodrigues – Regarding the 2023 Macau Grand Prix, I believe my performance was generally positive. However, I think my speed progression could have been better. I should have reached the speed level I eventually achieved in the final race earlier. Ideally, I should have done so in the first important session, which was qualifying. It’s a mistake I hope to correct this year.
After driving in Macau in 2023, it was much easier to drive on regular tracks.
– How did this participation contribute to your career?
T.R. – Considering that Macau isn’t a traditional track with a lot of space, the truth is there’s very little, if any, room for error. Racing here demands extraordinary focus and a lot of courage. Honestly, after driving in Macau in 2023, it became much easier to drive on regular tracks because I felt more confident.
– Overall, has the strategy outlined by you, your team, and your father for your career been followed, or has it undergone changes?
T.R. – Our strategy has always been unconventional. We’ve always focused more on the present rather than the long term. Of course, this comes with both advantages and disadvantages.
– How did this participation in the Formula Regional in Macau come about? Does it relate to your participation in F4 in Sepang, where you raced with the same team?
T.R. – The decision to race in the Formula Regional in Macau was made at the same time as the decision to compete in the events I just raced in Malaysia. So, it had been planned for some time. The fact that I’m doing both events with the same team is very positive for me. I know the team much better now, and our synergy is, I believe, an advantage. By the way, I have to mention that it was André Couto who helped me find and negotiate the offer with Evans.
– What opportunities opened up after winning the Chinese F4 Championship?
T.R. – Right after winning the Chinese F4 Championship, several doors opened, which allowed me to participate in various championships and races. I’m very grateful for that, as they contributed to me being more established today.
– What are your ambitions this year in Macau, with your participation in Formula Regional with Evans?
T.R. – Honestly, I try not to think about what might happen in the race. I just focus on doing my best in terms of preparation and when I’m on the track. However, I know well that the more I work and the more focused I am, the closer I’ll be to achieving a good result. I believe that is certainly possible.
– You’re known for your bold style, for seeking space and pushing to the limit. Can we expect the same?
T.R. – Yes, being at the limit and exploring every possible way to be faster continues to be my preferred way of racing.
I will be the only driver on the grid [of the Formula Regional World Cup] who can consider the Macau Grand Prix as his race. I’ll be racing at home.
– Is it still possible to balance competition with family, studies, friends, and hobbies?
T.R. – At the moment, I haven’t been racing much, so I haven’t found it difficult to balance that with my personal life and school. It’s natural that this may change over time, but we’ll see what happens.
– Is being a driver from Macau an advantage or an obstacle?
T.R. – I believe being a driver from Macau provides many advantages, especially considering that I’ll be racing in Macau and I’ll be the only driver on the grid who can consider the Macau Grand Prix as his race. I’ll be racing at home. A home that has already attracted legends of the sport, such as Ayrton Senna, Schumacher, Verstappen, among many other great drivers.
– What are your plans after the Macau Grand Prix?
T.R. – For now, I can’t announce anything concrete. Naturally, everything depends on the sponsors and the level of financial support that my team and I can secure. We’re actively working to gather the necessary backing, as this sport is extremely expensive.
