MACAU (MCU) 21ST NOVEMBER 2009: Edoardo Mortara made a competitive return to race action in today's Macau F3 qualification race guiding his Volkswagen-powered Dallara chassis to third place with the final three laps of the race held under safety car conditions.

Mortara, who started the ten-lap race from fourth on the grid, got away from the line well but endured drama on the opening lap after Jules Bianchi hit his left rear wheel at the San Francisco bend. Mortara was able to continue, but sustained some damage to his car after the knock which subsequently affected his race pace.

The 22-year-old Signature driver who won the 2008 Macau qualification race, Volkswagen's first F3 race win at Macau since 1990, displayed his usual grit and determination to challenge Marcus Ericsson for second place. Although he was able to get past on lap eight, it was under yellow flags, so he was forced to concede the position just as the safety car was deployed, where it remained until the chequered flag.

Today's result ensures Mortara will line up in third place for tomorrow's main event, the 15-lap Macau F3 race, the jewel in the crown of the Formula 3 racing season.

"It is a great feeling to get a podium in Macau even if we were unfortunately not able to fight for victory in today's qualification race," commented Mortara. "I got away quite well from fourth on the grid but as we went through San Francisco I was hit from behind by another car. Thankfully I was able to continue, but the balance of the car had changed a bit. I was still able to fight hard with Ericsson for second place and I managed to get by on lap eight. However, I didn't realise the yellow flags were out so I had to let him past again in accordance with the rules. It was right after that when the safety car came out and stayed out until the end of the race, so I had to settle for third place. I'd like to thank Volkswagen and Signature for providing such a competitive package, which was proven by them taking the win today, but I will be doing all I can to claim the victory for them in tomorrow's main race. There is some tough competition this year so I am sure it will be a closely-fought race, but I am confident we can do it."