The Red Bull Air Race moves to Budapest for Round 4 of the series. Canadian pilot Pete McLeod started the season well, with a podium in the opener in Abu Dhabi, but the next 2 rounds saw McLeod fast, but hit with penalties that cost him a chance to get back on the podium.

RaceCanada - Penalties have been a problem in 2 of the 3 races so far this year, will this change how you fly for the rest of the season?

Pete McLeod - No dramatic strategy changes planned. Actually, with the current aircraft performance, I'm having to fly aggressive lines to have competitive times. When you take risky lines, penalties become more frequent. Penalty risk with a chance to win is better than no penalties and no chance to win though…

RC - After a couple of fast races, do you think the engine issues are behind you?

PM - I think it's running better than the opener in Abu Dhabi, but I don't think it's overly strong. There are stronger motors on the track from sure…but at this point there is nothing that can be done for this season.

RC - You made some modifications to the plane in the off season, after 3 races how would you say they have worked so far?

PM - We've been testing different wing tips…and still bouncing back and forth on them gathering data. Its a slow process. In the end, it looks like I'll need a big development year(s) to gain any sort of technical advantage.

RC - With 16 points separating you from the leaders, what do you have to do for the rest of the season to close that gap?

PM - With the new format and 8 races..anything can happen. The leaders are one penalty away from dropping a race with no point at any time. It's messy and unpredictable but I suppose its also exciting that way.

RC - Next up is Hungary, does the track there present any unique problems?

PM - Its not an overly technical track at first glance and could be hard to make up time it the speed is not there. I think getting the start speed just right could be a challenge here, and its forecast to be very hot so that could play a role!