Jordan's Track Talk

Category: Formula Three

  • HiTech terminates sponsorship

    HiTech Grand Prix who race in FIA F2 and FIA F3 have terminated their Uralkali sponsorship deal with immediate effect.

    The Silverstone based team, had been sponsored by the company since 2016. It’s CEO being Nikita Mazepins dad, Dmitry Mazepin.

    HiTech ran without the branding during pre-season testing last week as the Russian invasion of Ukraine continued.

    The team took to social media today, to announce its agreement with Uralkali as well as adding that it was “shocked and saddened” by the war and wished for a “swift and peaceful end” to the conflict.

    In a statement, the team said: “Hitech Grand Prix has elected to terminate, with immediate effect, the sponsorship agreement of Uralkali. As with the rest of the motorsport community, the team are shocked and saddened by the invasion of Ukraine and wish for a swift and peaceful end to the ongoing conflict.”

    Uralkali became a major team partner when Mazepin signed with the team in 2016 for the FIA European Formula 3 Championship remaining with the team the following year. He then returned to HiTech in 2020 for the F2 Championship.

  • F3 Testing Bahrain

    F3 Testing Bahrain

    Formula 3 returned to the Bahrain International Circuit, as a new-look field featuring 15 rookies headed out on track with their first lot of action of the year.

    Day 1-

    AM:

    Roman Stanek topped the timesheets during the opening stages, but his unrepresentative time of 2:13.030 was easily beaten by Reece Ushijima. HiTech Grand Prix’s Red Bull junior Isack Hadjar went 2nd with his teammate in 3rd.

    In the final 30 minutes of the session, Arthur Leclerc who was crowned Asian F3, champion during the off-season replaced Ushijima at the top with a 1:48.005. Maloney went second shortly after, while Ushijima managed to hold on to third.

    Enzo Trulli brought the session to slight stop as the Carlin driver stopped on track due to an engine issue just minuted before the chequered flag. MP duo Kush Maini and Caio Collet completed the most laps in the morning session, both doing 25 each.

    PositionDriverTeamLaptimeLaps
    1Arthur LeclercPREMA Racing1:48.00510
    2Zane MaloneyTrident1:48.0188
    3Reece UshijimaVan Amersfoort Racing1:48.03516
    4Isack HadjarHiTech Grand Prix1:48.08912
    5Kaylen FrederickHiTech Grand Prix1:48.12814
    Top 5 Morning Session

    PM:

    Caio Collet, went first and was followed by Ayrton Simmons, but as the laps got more competitive, rookie Gregoire Saucy jumped to the top with a 1:48.045 ahead of Francesco Pizzi and Jak Crawford.

    There were only two red flags during the session, the first being caused by Stanek who stopped at Turn 8, and the second by Patrick Pasma, in the final few minutes at Turn 7.

    PositionDriverTeamLaptimeLaps
    1Zane MaloneyTrident1:47.61423
    2Williams AlataloJenzer Motorsport1:47.78324
    3Jak CrawfordPREMA Racing1:47.79934
    4Roman Stanek Trident1:47.85421
    5Franco ColapintoVan Amersfoort Racing1:47.94329
    Top 5 Afternoon Session

    Day 2-

    AM:

    Martins set the benchmark at 1:47.602 ahead of Edgar in the early stages of a hot morning. The Alpine junior, remained up front for the majority of the session, but his time was eventually beat by Isack Hadjar who went 0.086s.

    ART driver Gregoire Saucy, put in the most laps this session, completing 45 runs overall.

    PositionDriversTeamsLaptimeLaps
    1Isack HadjarHiTech Grand Prix1:47.51630
    2Victor MartinsART Grand Prix1:47.60243
    3Jonny EdgarTrident1:47.62930
    4Gregoire SaucyART Grand Prix1:47.80445
    5Juan Manuel CorreaART Grand Prix1:47.83443
    Top 5 Morning Session

    PM:

    The afternoon session of Day 2 was a mix of long runs and fast laps as the session began in hot condition but then cooled as the session went on. Francesco Pizzi knocked his teammate of the top spot, but he didn’t remain there for long as Franco Colapinto and Olli Bearman each enjoyed spells in first.

    But it was Martins, who took control of the session as he out in a 1:48.250. Edgar was the busiest in the afternoon as he completed 43 laps before a minor collision between Ido Cohen and Correa brought out a red flag.

    PositionDriverTeamLaptimeLaps
    1Victor MartinsART Grand Prix1:48.25036
    2Roman StanekTrident1:48.37934
    3Isack HadjarHiTech Grand Prix1:48.49038
    4Gregoire SaucyART Grand Prix1:48.62237
    5Alexander SmolyarMP Motorsport1:48.69734
    Top 5 Afternoon Session

    Day 3-

    AM:

    All cars headed out to an cloudy and humid track, but it was Hadjar who led the field and the mileage. The Red Bull backed driver ended the session with a 0.381s gap to 2nd.

    The only red flag of the session came because of Kaylen Frederick stopping at Turn 3.

    PositionDriverTeamLaptimeLaps
    1Isack HadjarHiTech Grand Prix1:47.24744
    2Jak CrawfordPREMA Racing1:47.62836
    3Gregoire SaucyART Grand Prix1:47.71936
    4Caio ColletMP Motorsport1:47.78232
    5Alexander SmolyarMP Motorsport1:47.90931
    Top 5 Morning Session

    PM:

    The grid had to battle a sandstorm as Stanek topped the final session, setting a 1:48.182, in the final hour. But it was Colapinto who set 43 laps the most out of any of the drivers.

    There were 3 red flag during the session, with Josep Maria Marti, Laszlo Toth and Saucy all stopping on track for separate reasons.

    PositionDriverTeamLaptimeLaps
    1Roman StanekTrident1:48.18234
    2Reece UshijimaVan Amersfoort Racing1:48.79838
    3Zane MaloneyTrident1:48.80728
    4Franco ColapintoVan Amersfoort Racing1:48.97543
    5Jonny EdgarTrident1:49.16738
    Top 5 Afternoon Session

    Formula 3 will be back and returning to Bahrain for the opening round of the season from March 18th to 20th.

  • Azman joins HiTech

    Nazim Azman, joins HiTech Grand Prix for the 2022 campaign, which makes him the first Malaysian driver to race in Formula 3. Azman completes HiTech’s line-up, joining Kaylen Frederick and Isack Hadjar.

    The Malaysian racer, spent the 2021 season in the Euroformula Open, where he won once and took seven podiums to finish 4th overall.

    He then spent all three days of post-season testing in Valencia, the first two with Jenzer Motorsport and the final with Charouz Racing System as he got his first taste of F3 machinery.

    Azman made his single seater debut in the 2016-17 season of Formula 4 SEA and has since gained further experience with races in Spanish F4, SMP F4, Formula Masters Asian Series and Italian f4.

    The 20 year old, then spent two season in BRDC British F3, where he finished third with Carlin in 2020, before making the move to Euroformula.

    “I’m really excited to be stepping up to the FIA F3 series with Hitech GP,” said Azman. “The team is an established race and championship winner in the F3 category and will provide me with the perfect platform from which to focus on racing against some of the best young talent in the world. I’m looking forward to racing in Bahrain again, visiting some of the most iconic circuits in Europe — some of which I am already familiar with and others that will be new to me. I can’t deny that this is a big step up for me but, having raced — and won — in both the British and EuroFormula Open series, I believe that I am ready for the challenge.”

    Team manager Jay Davenport added: “We are delighted to have Nazim join the team for the 2022 season, he has a competitive track record in the other series and we aim to give him a package to do the same this season. We have been working hard over the winter and we are keen to get back to business on track in Bahrain.”

  • Trulli completes Carlin line-up

    Enzo Trulli has complete the Carlin line-up for this season, with the racer set to join, Zak O’Sullivan and Brad Benavides.

    Trulli, debuted with Carlin in the second half of last season competing for the British team in Euroformula Open where he took three podiums in the final four races.

    He finished 7th overall, with spending the first nine races with Drivex School scoring one podium and nine top eight finishes before he made the switch to Carlin.

    The Italian, jumped into single seaters for the first time competitively in early 2021, Trulli’s first taster was in the UAE Formula 4 Championship, which he won with four victories and 13 podiums.

    “It is with great pleasure that I announce my commitment with Carlin for the 2022 FIA F3 Championship,” said Trulli. “I am so happy to stay in the Carlin family for this fantastic experience, after a very successful first season with them in the Euroformula. I am truly thankful to Trevor Carlin and the team for believing in me. Of course, it’s going to be a learning season for me, considering the limited experience I have and the limited mileage available in the car. Yet, I’m ready to work hard and to support the team’s work and progress, in order to bring Carlin on the top of the F3 list. It is such a fantastic opportunity and I look forward to starting the learning process!”

    Carlin Racing Director Trevor Carlin added: “Enzo has made a remarkable start to his single seater career. He impressed us greatly with his performances in Euroformula Open despite having extremely limited experience. His performance in the rain in Monza, his first ever wet single-seater race, was particularly indicative as to his mindset and approach. This season will be massive learning curve for him. FIA F3 is a hugely competitive series and a huge ask for a driver in only their second season of racing. Enzo needs to focus on learning and taking something from each weekend. We are thrilled to be working with him and look forward to helping him progress with each race.”

  • Maini completes MP’s line-up

    Kush Maini completes MP Motorsport’s line-up for 2022, in which the rookie will line up with Caio Collet and Alex Smolyar.

    Maini began his single-seater career in 2016 racing in Italian Formula 4, he then continued to race in the series in 2017 where he finished eight overall.

    He switched to BRDC British Formula 3 in 2018, where he placed third with eight podiums and a win, before he stepped up to Formula Renault Eurocup, ending the year in sixth. Maini, then returned to BRDC British F3 in 2020 where he finished as vice-champion with 12 podiums and 3 wins.

    In 2021, the 21 year old began in Asian F3, partnering F2 racer Jehan Daruvala at Mumbai Falcons, he also made his FIA World Endurance Championship – LMP2 debut last season competing in 6 hours of Bahrain.

    “I’m excited to join MP Motorsport for my first year in FIA F3”, said Maini. “In 2021, MP proved to be race winners and in the final standings they were the only FIA F3 team to have two rookies finish in the top-ten. This shows their ability to coach rookie drivers on their way to immediately performing well in the series. I can’t wait to get going for pre-season testing and the first round at Bahrain!”

    MP Motorsport Team Principal Sander Dorsman added: “I’m pleased to welcome Kush to our FIA F3 team. In the past few years, Kush has proved himself extremely well at regional F3 levels, now it’s time for him to step up to FIA F3. I’m sure he will mix well with Alex and Caio, and we will do our best to help him shine during each of the nine race weekends coming up in the championship.”

  • Benavides joins Carlin

    Brad Benavides will be making his Formula 3 debut with Carlin this year, alongside fellow rookie Zak O’Sullivan.

    The American-Spanish spent the first half of last season in the Formula Regional European Championship before switching to Euroformula Open in the second half of the year where he finished in the top 10 in eight out of nine races with Carlin.

    The British team then ran him in their Formula 3 machinery on Days 1 and 3 of post-season testing, where he impressed to earn a deal.

    The 20 year old, made his single-seater debut at the end of 2018, in the final two races of the Euroformula Open Championship at Barcelona, before opting to run in Formula Renault Eurocup in 2019, after a year out in 2020. Benavides returned to Europe with a seat in Formula Regional European in 2021.

    “I’ve been a die-hard fan of racing my whole life, and I now have in my hands the greatest opportunity I’ve ever had,” said Benavides. “I feel like, at the same time, my greatest achievements are closer than ever. I am going to give my maximum effort this season and make it one to be proud of.”

    Racing Director Trevor Carlin added: “Brad is still a very young driver at the start of his career. Making the step up to FIA F3 in only his second season in Europe will be a big learning curve but Brad has a fantastic attitude both in and out of the car. We’re delighted he has chosen to stay with the team for this next step in his career and we can’t wait to get started with testing later next month in Bahrain.”

  • Vidales completes Campos line-up

    David Vidales completes the Campos Racing line-up for 2022, with the team announcing he will be joining Hunter Yeany and Josep Maria Marti for this season.

    He steps up to Formula 3 on the back of a year in Formula Regional European Championship by Alpine, he finished 10th overall with three podiums and a win. He took part in the post-season test in Valencia for day 1 and 2, he finished top 10 in both sessions on day 2.

    The Spanish driver, only made his single-seater debut in 2020, racing for JD Motorsport in Formula Renault Eurocup, he placed sixth with six podiums and a win to his name. Vidales then remained in the series as it merged with Formula Regional European Championship.

    On joining Campos, Vidales said: “It’s an honour for me to become part of the team founded by the late Adrian Campos, the man who, together with my manager Salvatore Gandolfo, helped me in my first steps in single-seater driving. Also, I am very proud to join a Spanish team and I can’t wait to start working with them to aim for wins in the 2022 FIA Formula 3 series!”

    “I would like to welcome David (Vidales) as new Campos Racing driver,” said Campos Racing Team Principal Adrián Campos. “He is a very competitive driver who got his first taste of single-seater racing with us. We all know his real potential and how well he is able to perform. Whenever we have the opportunity to work with Spanish talents, we definitely do it. Our goal this season is to hoist the Spanish flag at the top of the podium as much as possible.”

  • Simmons first full F3 campaign

    Charouz Racing System have completed their line up for Formula 3 2022 season, in which they announced that Ayrton Simmons will join Laszlo Toth and Francesco Pizzi.

    Simmons, first debuted in F3 with Charouz in the season finale at Sochi last year on the back of a season in GB3, where he finished as runner up to rookie Zak O’Sullivan. Simmons won four times, and finished on the podium on five occasions.

    The British driver arrives to F3 with 6 years of single-seater experience including title challenges in British F4 in 2018 and in BRDC British F3, as well as competing in Asian F3 and opening races of the Euroformula Open Championship.

    “I’m very grateful to Antonín and the whole Charouz Racing System team for this opportunity,” said Simmons. “Having my first full season in the FIA Formula 3 will be a demanding and exciting challenge for me, I can’t wait to get back behind the wheel and try immediately to find a good feeling with the Dallara in order to start off on the right foot from the first race in Bahrain. It will be interesting to race against some of the best young drivers in the world and to race on legendary tracks like those on the calendar, especially at Silverstone which will be my home race. A good result there would be a dream, but we’ll obviously try to give our best in every round and take every opportunity to end in the top positions.”

    Team owner Antonín Charouz added: “It’s a pleasure for us to be able to continue to have Ayrton in the team after last year’s positive debut, a first experience that I’m sure will be of enormous value for him as he approaches this new and demanding season. With his reconfirmation, our Formula 3 team can now count on three drivers of undoubted talent and potential, with whom we’ll aim to get into the points from the very first races. The guys are already working really hard to prepare for the first test sessions, we’ll do everything possible to make the most of the three days at our disposal and get to the first round in the right conditions to show a good level of competitiveness.”

  • Martins to Art GP

    Victor Martins will be spending his 2022 season with ART Grand Prix in Formula 3 for his second season. The French racer completes ART’s line up, as he joins rookie Gregoire Saucy and Juan Manuel Correa.

    Marts spent the 2021 campaign with MP Motorsport, finishing as the highest placed rookie in fifth. He took his first win in Zandvoort, and managed to score six podiums in total.

    The 20 year old, switched to ART for post-season testing, he finished second in the times in both sessions on Day 1.

    Martins made his single-seater debut in the final four races of the French Formula 4 series, before stepping up full time in 2017 and finishing as vice champion. The Alpine Academy driver then spent three seasons in Formula Renault Eurocup, finishing fifth in 2018, second in 2019 and then winning the title in 2020 with seven wins and 14 podiums.

    “I am very happy to be able to collaborate with ART Grand Prix once again,” said Martins. “This time for the 2022 FIA F3 Championship, following on from a 2020 season that was filled with common successes. I am excited for this opportunity and to start this new adventure together. Our goals are big, and we are ready to achieve them. I have already done a lot of work this winter to start the season well prepared from the first few laps behind the wheel. I can’t wait to get back in the car!”

    ART Grand Prix Team Principal Sébastien Philippe added: “We are delighted that Victor returns to the team. He has great qualities as a driver and of a man that were beneficial to us during the Formula Renault Team and Driver title in 2020. We have followed his progress very closely, last year. In 2022 we are hoping to harness both ART Grand Prix and Victor’s full potential so we can put our names on the Formula 3 charts.”

  • Collet sticks with MP Motorsport

    Caio Collet has been retained for his second season in Formula 3 by MP Motorsport, where he will join Alex Smolyar.

    The Brazilian driver, enjoyed a positive debut season with MP finishing as the second-highest rookie in ninth place, he managed to grab a podium in his very first race before adding a second in Round 2

    But after this, the 19 year old went through a tricky spell of one points’ finish in six races. He then went on to finish in the top 5 in six of the final eight races. Collet then remained with MP for post-season testing in Valencia and finished in the top 10 in five out of six sessions.

    In 2018, Collet made his debut in to single seaters, he went on to win the French Formula 4 title the same year, which saw him take seven wins and 11 podiums from 20 races.

    He then took a step up to Formula Renault Eurocup for 2019, placing fifth in his rookie year and second to Victor Martins in his second, before he made the jump to F3.

    “I’m very happy to continue in FIA F3 with MP Motorsport and the enduring support of the Alpine Academy”, said Collet. “We were strong in 2021 – and that was while taking on many accomplished drivers in an intensely competitive championship. With the knowledge that I have gained in my first season, I’m very much aiming to improve on last year’s results. I’m also looking forward to again racing in the special atmosphere of the Grand Prix weekends, and in front of the F1 teams.”

    MP Motorsport Team Principal Sander Dorsman added: “Caio staying with us for a second year is a massive coup. Last year, with three rookies, Caio being one of them, we showed that we were right on the pace with the longer-serving top runners in the series and took home a lot of points to bag a fighting fourth in the Team’s Championship. Building on Caio’s talent and increased experience, and teaming him up with Alex, hands us a very strong package for 2022. I can’t wait to attack the season with these guys.”

    My Opinion-

    Yesss! This is the right decision by far, if you look back at what his done so far and how well he has done including his rookie seasons it shows he is very talented and deserves a spot in F3 as well as the Alpine Academy.

  • Jenzer Motorsport sign Cohen & Alatalo

    Jenzer Motorsport sign Cohen & Alatalo

    Jenzer Motorsport have signed two out of three drivers for their 2022 season in Formula Three.

    Ido Cohen switches to Jenzer, for his second year in Formula 3 after switching from Carlin, he comes of an educational rookie season, where he took a highest finish of 12th but came close to scoring points multiple times.

    The 20 year-old, first experienced Jenzer machinery on the final day of post-season test in Valencia and impressed enough to earn a full time seat.

    “I am really happy to join the Jenzer Motorsport family,” said Cohen. “I drove with the team in Valencia and it was a really good experience. The people there were very professional, so with the team capabilities and the experience I already have in the championship, I am confident I can achieve good results. I am excited and looking forward to driving in Bahrain.”

    Jenzer have signed 19 year old, William Alatalo for his first ever season in Formula 3, he is making the step up from Formula Regional European Championship by Alpine, he finished 11th with Arden Motorsport, scoring his podium at Le Castellet.

    The Finnish born driver first tried out Jenzer machinery at post-season testing on days 2 and 3.

    ”I am extremely happy to drive FIA F3 with Jenzer Motorsport,” said Alatalo. “This is one step closer to my dream, and I will do everything I can to score good results. The championship is going to be really tough. We as a team need to do our best to get good results. I believe me and Jenzer can achieve good results along the season. I trust the team, and I will do my best on and off-track. I will do better than before, and that’s a promise I intend to keep.”

  • Frederick signs with HiTech

    Kaylen Frederick has signed with HiTech Grand Prix for his second season of Formula 3, eh will be joining Red Bull junior Isack Hadjar at the Silverstone based squad.

    Frederick spent his first season with Carlin, only making the points once with a ninth-place finish at the Red Bull Ring, however he then missed the following two rounds of the season due to injury and illness. Returning for the final two rounds of 2021, Frederick came close to scoring points on two occasions but narrowly missing out.

    The American, spent all three days of testing with HiTech, where he punched in four top 10 times out of six sessions.

    The 19 year olds single seater career started back in America, with stints in the F1600 Championship Series and the U.S F200 National Championship before he made a full time move to European racing in 2019, competing for Carlin in the BRDC British F3.

    Finishing ninth in his rookie year, the American remained in the Championship for a second season where he took the title with nine wins and 12 podiums from 24 races.

    “I am thrilled to race with Hitech GP for the 2022 FIA F3 season,” said Frederick. “Hitech have an established presence among many championships and a solid platform to build for success. We had a strong post-season test in Valencia and have continued to develop our working relationship. The entire team has been helpful in getting me acclimated to the new environment, so I am feeling super comfortable and confident heading into this year. I also would like to thank Pilot ONE Racing for their long-standing support which has allowed us to realize this great opportunity together. We have a great foundation under us with which to show our abilities. The season has an exciting calendar so I can’t wait to get started.”

    Hitech General Manager Jay Davenport added: “We are really pleased to have Kaylen join us for the 2022 season, he produced a strong performance driving a Hitech car at the Valencia test at the end of last season and we are eager to see him carry this form over into the coming race season. We have been working hard over the winter break fine-tuning our cars and our approach and we are keen to get back to business on track in Bahrain next month.”

  • Colapinto completes VAR’s line-up

    Van Amersfoort Racing have confirmed their final spot by signing Franco Colapinto for the 2022 season he will be along side, Rafael Villagomez and Reece Ushijima.

    The 18 year old will step up on the back of a busy season, where he took on single-seater and LMP2 racing. He finished sixth in Formula Regional European Championship by Alpine, as well as making appearances in the European and Asian LeMans Series and the FIA World Endurance Championship.

    The Buenos Aires born racer made his Formula 3 debut at the post-season test in which he was the fastest on track on the second day.

    He first made his single-seater debut in the final round of the Spanish Formula 4 Championship in 2018 winning the last of four races, which resulted in stepping up full-time in 2019 where he dominated the series, winning 11 times and taking 14 podiums overall.

    He then spent 2020 competing in Formula Renault Eurocup and the Toyota Racing Series, where he placed third in both before moving to Formula Regional in 2021.

    “I really enjoyed my first time in the F3 car,” said Colapinto. “It is obviously way more powerful than the FRECA car, but at the same time has surprisingly similar driving characteristics to the LMP2 car; fast and loads of downforce. A significant difference to the LMP2 class will of course be tyre management, but I like that intelligent part of racing. I really look forward to teaming up with Van Amersfoort Racing as they have such a strong history. They take their return to the FIA F3 championship extremely serious, and I am really excited to be part of that journey. The crew is motivated and an absolute pleasure to work with. Pre-season testing at Bahrain is just around the corner and I can’t wait for it to start!”

    VAR CEO Rob Niessink said: “We are excited to have Franco on board for our debut season in FIA F3. Looking at his career so far, he has shown to not only possess a good portion of raw talent, but that he also has the capability to quickly adapt to circumstances. We had our eye on him already as a potential candidate, which was reinforced after seeing him perform during the post-season test at Valencia, early November last year. We have thoroughly structured our F3 team over the winter period and are more than ready to hit the track early March in Bahrain.”

    My Opinion-

    This is a good move in my opinion, his definitely talented enough to be in Formula 3 so it will be interesting to see how he can fully adapt to a full F3 season than just the post-seaon test, but he how’s promise.

  • Yeany first full campaign, F3

    American driver, Hunter Yeany will be stepping up to compete in Formula 3 for a full-time basis driving for Campos.

    Yeany first made his debut in F3 last season with Charouz Racing System, competing in Spa-Francorchamps and Zandvoort with his highest finish being 18th.

    The move to European racing followed stints of American-based Championships Indy Pro 2000 and Formula Regional Americas last season.

    He drove for Velocity Racing Development, he took three top 10 finishes from eight races in Indy Pro 2000 and finished in the points twelve out of thirteen races he competed in Formula Regional Americas.

    The American became the youngest winner of the Formula 4 United States Championship in 2020 which was his first year of single seater racing. Yeany absolutley dominated the championship winning 7 times times and taking 14 podiums from 15 races!

    “I’m really excited to announce that I’ll be doing the full season of FIA F3 with Campos Racing,” said Yeany. “I would like to thank Campos Racing for the opportunity and my family and friends for their support.”

    Campos Racing Sporting Director Adrián Campos added: “I should like to extend a warm welcome aboard to another young driver as Hunter. Probably alongside Pepe they are the youngest drivers in the field, but we perfectly know how talented he is. We will do our utmost to help him quickly in such competitive racing series and we are sure Hunter will reach his full potential.”

    My Opinion-

    This is what I like to see! I feel like he deserves a full year, it will be interesting to see what he can do having worked with the team before the season starts and during pre-season testing.

  • Villagomez stays in F3

    Rafael Villagomez will be spending his second season of Formula 3 with Van Amersfoort Racing.

    In his rookie season with HWA Racelab, he also competed in the Euroformula Open Championship, taking five podiums with VAR to finish eight overall in the standings.

    The Mexican, only made his debut in single-seaters in 2020 but already has lots of experience, he finished 11th in British F4 and 6th in French F4, before running in the final four races of the 2020 Euroformula season.

    “Last year was certainly a learning year for me, which I knew it would be,” said Villagómez. “The move up from Formula 4 to FIA F3 was a big step, but I enjoyed every minute of it. Now I feel ready to compete at a higher level and aim for points and podium finishes. Having raced with them in Euroformula Open last year, I know Van Amersfoort Racing very well. It gives me great confidence to have them at my side, especially since I know how dedicated they are towards this program!”

    Van Amersfoort CEO Rob Niessink added: “It is always great to be able to progress with a driver into a second year. Both driver and crew have grown close together during the season and despite Rafael moving up to another category within VAR, we know him well and he knows our way of working through and through. Rafael faced a steep learning curve last year, something that was anticipated. For the upcoming season, his approach is certainly focused on scoring points and finishing on the podium. Besides the fact that our crew fully supports Rafael in every step he makes this season, he also brings along valuable F3 experience gathered last year. Clearly, we are thrilled to get this journey started and are looking forward to pre-season testing at Bahrain early March!”

    My Opinion-

    Good move for him, he already knows the Dutch team well so thats already a bonus. It will be interesting to see how he does racing wise in Formula 3 with the team.

  • Stanek makes a switch

    Trident’s line up for 2022 is now complete as they have Roman Stanek joining them he is making the switch from HiTech Grand Prix.

    The 17 year-old made his debut in Formula 3 at the start of 2020 where he joined Charouz Racing System as the youngest driver on the grid. He scored his first points in the penultimate round of the season at Monza.

    In 2021, he finished in the top 10 four times and scored two podiums finishing third both times. Ahead of F3, the Czech driver won the rookie title in ADAC Formula 4 and took fifth overall in Italian F4 with three wins and six podiums across the two.

    “I am proud to be part of the Trident Motorsport line-up as it is a leading force among F3 teams,” said Staněk. “I hope to bring in experience and speed to help the team defend its 2021 title. In my first two seasons in the FIA Formula 3 Championship, I’ve grown up constantly, and I am sure that with Trident Motorsport, we will have all the components needed to compete at a high level.”

    Trident Team Manager Giacomo Ricci added: “We are proud to welcome a racer with such outstanding qualities like Roman Staněk. Despite being only 17, Roman is in his third year in the category and will bring the right amount of experience and speed. That will allow the team to continue its winning tradition in the FIA Formula 3 Championship. Roman impressed the technical staff l during the 2021 post-season test when he was constantly among the fastest drivers on the track.”

    My Opinion-

    I think this is a good move, I think this may be his last season in F3 considering this will be his third so he will want to fight for the title.

  • Pizzi steps up to F3

    Charouz Racing System has announced the signing of Francesco Pizzi who is making the step up from Formula Regional.

    The Italian racer only made his single-seater debut in 2020, but won the UAE Formula 4 title in his first season with three poles and 10 podiums, which includes 8 wins. In the same year, he also finished second in the Italian F4 where he had three wins and a further seven podiums.

    Stepping up to the Formula Regional European Championship by Alpine. Pizzi endured a more challenging campaign but still managed to score 12 points and finishing 20th overall.

    Pizzi didn’t take art in the post season test, he has run MP Motorsport’s F3 car at testing in Jerez in 2020.

    “I am obviously very excited to be joining Charouz Racing System,” said Pizzi. “I really enjoyed the work we have already done together in the last few days at the factory. This is a great opportunity for me because the team has shown that it can be the right place for a young driver. I intend to make the most of this chance while doing the best possible job for the team.”

    Charouz Team Owner Antonín Charouz added: “We’re very pleased to add another important piece to our 2022 line-up. Francesco has already demonstrated with his past results that he has excellent potential, we’re sure that he will be able right away to do his best working with all the engineers and mechanics in order to prepare for the first races and show what he can do in such a competitive championship. The beginning of the season is approaching very quickly and the whole team is already working very hard to start off on the right foot and build a season that lives up to our expectations.”

    My Opinion-

    I am quite undecided on this, I feel like maybe competing for another year in Formula Regional would of been better but I won’t write him off as anything can happen in motorsport.

  • Ushijima to drive for VAR, F3

    Van Amersfoort Racing has announced their first driver for Formula 3 and that being Reece Ushijima!

    Ushijima will be stepping up from the GB3 Championship after a title-challenging season with HiTech Grand Prix, he finished fourth overall with three poles, two wins and seven podiums.

    Not only did he compete in GB3, he also competed in the 2021 Asian Formula 3 Championship where he ended the year as the second highest-rookie in 11th place!

    The 19 year old, enjoyed a successful post-season F3 test with the team on Days 1 & 2 before he went to Campos Racing for the third day and he managed to finish 2nd overall in the afternoon session.

    Ushijima first started his karting career at 13 years old, he initially started in Japan but then moved to Europe. After four years of karting, he went on to the BRSSC Formula Ford Winter series to make his single-seater debut where he qualified on pole and finished third and second in the races.

    “To be racing with such an experienced and successful team as Van Amersfoort Racing is a great privilege,” said Ushijima. “Seeing how motivated and hardworking they were during post-season testing at Valencia has made me really excited to what we can achieve this year. It may be an uphill battle, as it is both the team’s and my first year competing in the FIA F3, but I believe we can achieve something special with our combined determination. I cannot wait to get the season started!”

    Van Amersfoort CEO Rob Niessink added: “We first worked with Reece during post-season testing at Valencia last year and he impressed us. It will be both his and our first season in this car, so for sure there is lots to be learned, but Reece’s determination excites us. His interaction with the team was impressive and he showed to be a quick learner. The level of progress he booked during the two days he tested with us is a clear indicator of his potential. We have been preparing our entry into this category to the finest detail and are absolutely thrilled to get going early next month!”

    My Opinion–

    This is a good move, definitely got the talent to be in F3 so it’ll be interesting to see how he does for the full season.

  • Martí promoted to F3

    Martí promoted to F3

    Josep María Martí has signed for the Formula 3 2022 season for Campos Racing, being promoted from the Spanish F4 with the same team.

    The 16 year old notched up two wins and four podiums in Spanish F4 last season where he finished 3rd overall. Following on from this- Marti took part in the post-season test for F3 with Campos.

    Last season was the first season of his single seater career, after having a successful karting career.

    “I’m delighted to continue my racing career with Campos Racing for a further year,” said Marti. “We completed a very strong work in 2021 and I think it’s the right choice to step up to FIA Formula 3 with the same team. I will continue learning and improving as a racing driver. We are extremely motivated to take up the challenge and give our best throughout 2022.”

    Campos Sporting Director Adrián Campos added: “Our goal was always to have a racing team being able to open up opportunities of improving and growing as a racing driver from kart racing to the F1 feeder series. Therefore, we also joined the F4-based racing series last year. Pepe is a superb example proving this because in my opinion, he is one of the most talented racing drivers who never have competed with us. We are proud because he has chosen us to continue working together. He achieved fantastic results in F4 last year and we now have another huge challenge ahead, but we are looking forward to completing a strong 2022 season.”

    My Opinion-

    I think this is great news! Marti is a very young and talentend driver and for him to already come into Formula 3 with just one season worth of single seaters says a lot about him! I definitley think he is one to watch out for.

  • László Tóth stays in F3

    László Tóth stays in F3

    Lászlo Tóth has singed on the dotted line to stay in Formula 3 but he is switching teams however… He will be joining Charouz Racing System after being with Campos Racing last year.

    Like many, Tóth began his career in karting, before he made the step-up to single-seaters. He has gained experience in the Italian, Spanish and ADAC F4.

    The 21 year old competed in the 2019 FIA Motorsport games where he achieved the best results of the Hungarian delegation in the Formula 4 cup with fourth and seventh. In 2020, he moved to Formula Renault Eurocup where his best finish was seventh and then moved to Formula 3 from there…

    “I’m very happy to start working together with this team,” said Tóth. “Last week I was already in Prague, met the team members and started preparations with the sim. The circumstances are very good and there is a high potential in the team so I hope that we will have a successful season”

    Team Owner Antonín Charouz added: “We’re very happy to welcome László to Charouz Racing System, he’s a young and promising driver who’s already covered a notable mileage at the wheel of Formula 4 and Formula 3 cars in the past few years and I’m confident that his experience will be helpful for all of us all along next season. I’m sure it will be no problem for him to find the best way to work together with the team and get up to speed straight away from the first test sessions”

    My Opinion-

    I think this is a good choice for him, he didn’t have the best season. It’ll be good for him to get this year as more experience and hopefully some points finishes.

  • Maloney to make debut in F3

    Maloney to make debut in F3

    Another seat has gone for Formula 3, this one going to Zane Maloney who will be joining champions Trident for the 2022 season!

    Maloney took the British Formula 4 title back in 2019 making him the first driver from his country to win a single-seater championship in Europe. It was his first season racing in single-seaters but he managed to grab 10 wins on his way to the title.

    In 2020 he competed in Euroformula Open, delivering two podiums in which he finished 8th overall. He made the switch to Formula Regional European for 2021 where he finished 4th in his debut season. He managed to grab a win as well as six podiums and one pole position.

    Maloney, tested for Trident in the post-season test at Valencia and impressed the team! He managed to get in the top 10 in 5 out of the 6 sessions.

    “I am proud to debut in the FIA Formula 3 Championship with Trident Motorsport, the queen among the teams in the series,” said Maloney. “Throughout the last season, I think I have grown as a driver, both in terms of managing the race weekends and in paying attention to every detail. Together with Trident Motorsport, I want to continue in this direction, and I am sure that there are all the ingredients to do well in the FIA Formula 3 Championship. I can’t wait to get out on track and start this new adventure in an extremely popular and competitive series.”

    Trident Team Manager Giacomo Ricci added: “We are delighted to welcome Zane to our line-up. He really stood out in the post-season test at Valencia last November. Zane adapted very quickly to the F3 car, posting competitive results both in terms of performance and long runs. A strong bond immediately formed between him and the team, which is proud to have secured a driver with good prospects with whom to compete in a demanding series such as the FIA Formula 3 Championship.”

    My Opinion-

    This is a good move for him! It was only a matter of time till he was in Formula 3. He impressed in the post-season test so it will be interesting to see how he does throughout the season…

  • Latest F3 Announcements

    Latest F3 Announcements

    A few more Formula 3 seats have been taken up recently, so lets take a look…

    Edgar to Trident-

    The reigning Champs, Trident annoucned that Jonny Edgar will be joining the team for 2022, where he moves from Carlin. The Brit, finished 18th with 23 points in his rookie season- he managed to score five top-10 finishes.

    He drove for the team, in post-season testing and impressed the team to earn a drive, he ended the afternoon session on day 3 in third.

    Jonny is also a member of the Red Bull Junior team, he has 3 years of experience in single seaters, which includes him winning the 2020 ADAC Formula 4 title.

    Trident Team Owner Maurizio Salvadori added: “Jonny Edgar is a driver that we followed very closely last year in the Formula 3 Championship. Although he did not receive particular results, the English driver impressed us thanks to his qualities. I am therefore very happy that Jonny will. be part of the Trident Team lineup in 2022. I am sure that he will compete in a top championship and will be a real protagonist of the season.”

    Correa stays with ART-

    Juan Manuel Correa and Art Grand Prix have signed for another year together in Formula 3. The Sauber junior made his racing return with ART last year, two years on from the tragic accident in Spa.

    He ended 2021, in 21st place where he had five top 10 finishes. When he was racing in Formula 2 he was a double-podium finisher scoring second place at Baku and Le Castellet with Charouz Racing System.

    Correa took part in the Formula 2 post-season test in Abu Dhabi with Charouz so he could get some more mileage underneath him.

    Team Principal Sébastien Philippe added: “Juan Manuel provided positive feedback by fitting in perfectly with the team and making progress after missing a year due to that pivotal event in his career. His strength of character has enabled him to rediscover his joy behind the wheel and to fight regularly in the top 10. In 2022, with the help of ART Grand Prix, he will be keen to take an additional step in his goals, to be even closer to the front and to participate in the team’s ambition to win both championships.”

    MP signs Smolyar-

    The Russian driver, Alex Smolyar will be returning to Formula 3 for his third season, but he is swapping ART Grand Prix for MP Motorsport.

    Last year, Smolyar finished sixth overall, with two wins and four podiums. In his rookie season in 2020, he ended 11th with just one podium to his name.

    The Russian, first made his single seater debut in 2017, where he drove for SMP Racing in Spanish F4 and SMP F4. He finished third in both series. He then went on to spend the next two years in the Formula Renault Eurocup.

    “It’s great news that Alex and SMP Racing have put their faith in MP for this year’s FIA F3 Championship”, said MP Motorsport team principal Sander Dorsman. “Alex is arguably one of the best drivers to stay in the category for another season, and his vast knowledge of the car and the circuits will serve us well as we look forward to a strong season.”

    My Opinion-

    The move for Jonny is the right one, I feel like we will see a different driver this year in him. He will be wanting to help the team fight for the Championship again.

    Correa has a good relationship with ART GP, and its only right that he stays with them I think. I feel like him staying in F3 this year is the right decision, hopefully we will see him make an appearance in the top 10 more consistently this year!

    Smolyar, I feel like ART GP wasn’t the right fit for him. Yes he has done well in his first two years in F3 but I feel like MP will help make that step forward. It will be interesting to see how he does with a new team.

  • Isack Hadjar F3’s newest RB junior

    Isack Hadjar will become Formula 3’s newest Red Bull junior in 2022, in which he is making the step up with Hitech Grand Prix.

    He will be making his debut with the team in the Formula Regional Asian Championship before linking up with the team for a full campaign of F3.

    He joined the team for post-season testing in Valencia where he impressed the British team with a top 10 finish on the 3rd morning.

    In 2021, the 17 year old took sixth place in the Asian F3 Championship with five podiums before he competed in the inaugural Formula Regional European campaign, where he finished fifth with five podiums which included two wins.

    Hadjar, also arrives to Formula 3 with two years experience in French Formula 4, where he challenged for the title in 2020, in which he ended 3rd with three wins and eight podiums!

    “I am really happy to race with Hitech for a full campaign in FIA F3 and Formula Regional Asia,” said Hadjar. “I’m excited to see what we are able to achieve together and be working with a new team as I make my step up. There will be a lot to take in and plenty to learn, but I am ready for the challenge! Thanks to Red Bull for their support.”

  • Jak stays in F3

    Jak stays in F3

    Prema, have now completed their 2022 line-up with Jak Crawford taking the final seat.

    The Red Bull junior, made his debut in Formula 3 in 2021 with HiTech Grand Prix, he finished 13th overall, also in 2021 Jak competed in Euroformula Open Championship where he finished 3rd overall, even after missing two rounds due to his commitment to F3.

    The American, made his debut with Prema at post-season testing in Valencia where he finished five out of the six session in the top 10 and led the second day overall.

    Crawford started his single-seater career in 2018 where he took second place in the NACAM Formula 4 Championship and moving to the USF 2000 Championship for 2019. In 2020, he made the move to the European racing scene where he joined the Red Bull junior team as well as finishing second in the ADAC Formula 4 Championship.

    “I’m very excited to be joining PREMA for a second season of FIA F3 as well as contesting the Formula Regional Asian Championship with them. I am very much looking forward to building on what I learned last year in my rookie season, and hoping to emulate the success that other drivers have had with the team in the past. FIA F3 will be the main focus for me this year and I am eager to get the season underway.” said Crawford.

    “We have always kept a close eye on Jak,” added PREMA Team Principal René Rosin. “He established himself as one of the most promising drivers since his Formula 4 days, and finally working together will be extremely interesting. I’m sure that there is enough potential to aim high for 2022. We already had the chance to work with him in testing, and we look forward to continuing that process in the Formula Regional Asian Championship. I’m equally delighted to continue our work with the Red Bull Junior Team in order to develop the next generation of high-profile racing drivers.”

    My Opinion-

    I think this is the right move, his now got experience in Formula 3, and I think now he is with Prema he will show everyone what he can do and I am personally looking forward to it!

  • Leclerc stays with PREMA, F3

    Leclerc stays with PREMA, F3

    Arthur Leclerc has took the 2nd out of 3 Prema seats for the 2022 season, making the Italian team to be the only team who have signed two drivers so far.

    This will be his second season in Formula 3, but third season with the team as he first joined them in 2020 in the Formula Regional European Championship where he finished runner up with six wins, and 15 podiums.

    With that in the bag, the Monégasque earned a promotion into F3, where in his rookie season he won twice, as well as pole position and P2 in Budapest. Overall he finished 10th in the standings.

    Leclerc’s single seater journey began back in 2018 where he entered the French F4 where he finished 5th overall, the next year he finished second in the ADAC F4.

    “I am extremely happy to continue the work we started with PREMA Racing in the 2021 FIA Formula 3 Championship,” said Leclerc. “I think we did a good job last year, and 2022 will be a good opportunity to put together everything we have learned so far. I cannot wait for the season to start.”

    PREMA Team Principal Rene Rosin added: “It is great to continue our collaboration with Arthur. I am sure that he will carry on the progress we saw in 2021 when he showed he had the potential to be a frontrunner.

    “Last year’s experience with the challenging three-race weekends will definitely help him navigate the events with a great focus, which will surely benefit the whole team.“

    My Opinion-

    I didn’t think he would move up to Formula 2 this year, based on last years result, but its a good signing for himself and Prema. Hopefully we will see him be more consistent this year like in other series’ and then he can make that step up to F2 soon.

  • F2, F3 chosen tracks for testing

    F2, F3 chosen tracks for testing

    The dates for testing for both Formula 2 and Formula 3 have been revealed.

    Before both of the series gets underway at Sakhir on March 18th to 20th, there is a 3 day pre-season test at the circuit on the 2nd to 4th March, both series will alternate across the 3 days for each session and test. This is the third time F2 has used the country for the first bit of on track action. F3 used the track for pre-season testing back in 2020.

    After the season opener, F3 will go to Spain’s Jerez circuit on the 5th to the 6th of April for the second lot of tests, even though this venue is not on the calendar it is said to be used for set-up work and improving tyre management as the layout holds similarities to the Hungaroring.

    Formula Two holds its second round in Jeddah in late March before its in-season test the next month at Barcelona on the 12th to 14th of April, where they will be going again for round 4 of the 2022 season.

    After F2 have finished their tests, many of the teams will stay put in the paddock as F3 visits Barcelona for their 3rd test from the 15th to 16th. Out of the 11 teams in which take part in F2 and the 10 in F3, Virtuosi Racing and DAMS are the only teams to solely do F2, and Jenzer Motorsport only takes part in F3.

    Having just one pre-season test for both Formula Two and Three followed by further in-season tests was something which had been planned for the 2020 season before the coronavirus pandemic took effect and cause further disruption to the schedule.

  • Ollie Bearman F3 2022

    It has been announced that Oliver Bearman will be racing in Formula 3 for PREMA Racing, who he joined for the successful post-season test in Valencia.

    The 16 year old Brit became the first driver to win both Italian and ADAC Formula 4 Championships in the same season, which saw him earn a spot in the Ferrari Driver Academy.

    2021 was Bearmans second year of single seaters, he grabbed 15 podiums, 11 wins and eight poles in Italian F4 as well as 11 podiums, six wins and five poles in ADAC F4.

    “I’m really looking forward to stepping up to FIA F3 with PREMA, as my first official year being part of the Ferrari Driver Academy,” said Bearman. “We worked really well together in the post-season test at Valencia, and their results in previous years across everything which they do, speaks for itself. I can’t wait to get started in Bahrain!”

    PREMA Team Principal Rene Rosin added: “We are looking forward to working with Oliver in 2022. The results he achieved this year speak for themselves, and we have obviously been observing him as rivals. The step for him will be huge and particularly challenging, with a lot to learn, but we will do everything we can to help him maximize his potential and be competitive right from the start. It will be extremely interesting to see the season develop, and what we will be able to accomplish together.”

    My Opinion-

    I think this is great! Ollie is a very talented driver especially at 16 years old, and because of his achievements so far he deserves to get this seat in F3. It will be interesting to see how he does next year he is most definitely one to watch!

  • Van Amersfoort Racing joins F2

    The Formula 2 Championship promoters have confirmed that Van Amersfoort Racing will replace HWA Racelab entry and assets for the 2022 Formula 2 season. The Dutch team will be running for the first time this week in the post season test taking place in Abu Dhabi.

    This follows two months after Formula 3 announced their grid that Van Amersfoort Racing will be joining F3 next season (2022).

    VAR started over forty years ago, with a number of different drivers coming through. From the likes of Jos Verstappen, Max Verstappen, Charles Leclerc, Mick Schumacher, Dennis Hauger and Jonny Edgar all having driven for the team over the years.

    FIA Formula 2 Championship CEO Bruno Michel said: “I am very pleased to welcome Van Amersfoort Racing to the Championship. I am certain that they will be a great addition to our grid, with them also competing in Formula 3 from next year. Joining F2 is always challenging, but their expertise and professionalism will undoubtably help them get to grips with the category quickly. I would like to take this opportunity to thank HWA RACELAB for their collaboration for the past two seasons, and I wish them success for their next challenge.”

    Rob Niessink, CEO of Van Amersfoort Racing adds: “After having recently announced our entry into the FIA F3 Championship, it now is an absolute pleasure to become part of the FIA F2 Championship as well. We are simply proud and consider this step as an important milestone in the long history of our team. It will be a challenge we don’t take lightly, and it might not come as a surprise that watching “our” F2 cars leave the pit-lane for the first time during the upcoming post-season test at Abu Dhabi will be a big moment for us. I want to thank Bruno Michel and HWA RACELAB for their support in making this happen.”

    My Opinion-

    I have heard of the Dutch team before with some drivers having driven for them in the past shows only good things. With them joining both Formula 2 and 3 grids it only shows good things in my opinion, looking back on the history of their drivers, it looks like they take time in spotting which drivers they want and they are all very talented now…

  • Saucy joins F3 for 2022

    The first signing for the 2022 Formula 3 Championship has been announced, and that is Grégoire Saucy and for ART Grand Prix.

    Saucy took part in the post-season testing at Valencia last week, where he set the best time of the three-day test and consistently running in the top two with ART.

    This isn’t the start of Saucy’s and ART’s relationship as it started last year as he competed in the Formula Renault Eurocup before making the switch to the newly formed Formula Regional Championship, he went on to get the title with 10 podiums including eight wins!

    “I am honoured and happy to continue the adventure with such a fantastic team like ART Grand Prix,” said Saucy. “This is a continuation after our great year 2021. I know the team and how it works, and this will be a very valuable asset to prepare for next season. I would like to thank my sponsors for this opportunity. The Valencia test went very well, even though I had a lot of new parameters to work through. Having said that, it’s way too early to set any goals for myself as I still.”

    Team manager Sébastien Philippe added: “After two years of a fruitful collaboration, concluded by securing the first title in the history of the Formula Regional European Championship by Alpine in 2021, ART Grand Prix was very keen to take another step forward with Greg. He showed the full extent of his talent and maturity in 2021 and in addition to this, we have come to know and appreciate each other both personally and sportingly. I am delighted and eager to write this new chapter in our collaboration.”

    My Opinion-

    I think this is great, I kept an eye on what Saucy was doing during testing and he definitely was one of the ones who stood out for me. It will be interesting to see what he does next year!

  • F3 Test Day 2 & 3

    We are back with the results from day 2 and 3 of the post season test in Valencia, lets see who tops the time of each session!

    Day 2 Morning-

    There was a number of different driver changes for the second day of testing with the main two being Paul Aron replacing Arthur Leclerc at PREMA Racing and Oliver Rasmussen switching to ART Grand Prix.

    David Vidales was the first to set the lead time with a 1:21.723 for Campos with Stanek setting an almost identical time shorty afterwards and Saucy set the top 3.

    Crawford was then a familiar name at the top during the final hour of the morning session as he went quickest with a 1:21.368 but shortly after there was a red-flag due to Johnathan Hoggard.

    The action then resumed but the order didnt really change with the top three being Crawford, Saucy and Stanek.

    The top 10 from Tuesday’s morning session:

    DriverTeamLaptime
    1Jak CrawfordPREMA Racing1:21.368
    2Grégoire SaucyART Grand Prix1:21.447
    3Roman StanekTrident1:21.453
    4Caio ColletMP Motorsport1:21.475
    5Jack DoohanVan Amersfoort Racing1:21.521
    6Oliver BearmanPREMA Racing1:21.593
    7Zane MaloneyTrident1:21.666
    8David VidalesCampos Racing1:21.723
    9Kaylen FrederickHiTech Grand Prix1:21.839
    10Reece UshijimaVan Amersfoort Racing1:21.889

    Afternoon-

    Three rookies set the standard for the afternoon session, with Colapinto leading Jenzer Motorsport duo Enzo Trulli and William Alatalo with a lap time of 1:22.757.

    Edgar then put in a 1:22.739 which put the 2021 Team Champion, Trident at the top of the leaderboard before Saucy brought the session to a halt with a red flag.

    Collet was the first to break the 1m 22s on this afternoon session after lapping a 1:21.843 which many drivers tried to beat and failed at doing so. But with only 15 minutes left of the session, Saucy decided to put on new tyres and to knock off the driver off P1 when he lapped a 1:21.789.

    The top 10 is as follows for Tuesday’s afternoon session:

    DriverTeamLaptime
    1Franco ColapintoMP Motorsport1:21.759
    2Grégoire SaucyART Grand Prix1:21.789
    3Caio ColletMP Motorsport1:21.843
    4Paul AronPREMA Racing1:21.857
    5Roman StanekTrident1:21.864
    6Kaylen FrederickHiTech Grand Prix1:21.913
    7Zane MaloneyTrident1:21.927
    8Jak CrawfordPREMA Racing1:21.941
    9David Vidales Campos Racing1:21.951
    10Oliver Bearman PREMA Racing1:21.979

    Day 3- Morning-

    The drivers didn’t hang about to get out on track this morning as soon as the lights went green the action started. We had Caio Collet set the early pace at 1:21.392 ahead of MP’s Colapinto and Ushijima.

    Smolyars return to Formula Three machinery didn’t last long as his VAR came to a stop in the first hour which paused the session. Once it resumed Saucy took P1 from Collet by only 0.092s there was then two further stoppages as Bearman came to a halt at Turn 12 and Marti stopped at Turn 4.

    Focus then went to data gathering in the second half of the morning and Saucy kept his place at the top of the leaderboard.

    The top 10 is as follows for the morning session:

    DriverTeamLaptime
    1Grégoire SaucyART Grand Prix1:21.300
    2Caio ColletMP Motorsport1:21.392
    3Jack DoohanVan Amersfoort Racing1:21.401
    4Roman StanekTrident1:21.422
    5Franco ColapintoMP Motorsport1:21.543
    6Zane MaloneyTrident1:21.597
    7Kaylen FrederickHiTech Grand Prix1:21.629
    8Jak CrawfordPREMA Racing1:21.767
    9Paul AronPREMA Racing1:21.835
    10Victor MartinsART Grand Prix1:21.873

    Afternoon-

    There was lots of long-runs in the afternoon stint until the last half an hour. Collet kept up his impressive work and set the time of 1:22.811 ahead of Edgar and Ushijima.

    Collet remained at the top for 2 hours and a half until Doohan pushed him off after there was a red flag due to Benavides stopping on track.

    Zak O’Sullivan managed to break into the top 10 after spending the first two days if testing in the latter half of leaderboard. He finished ahead of teammate Logan Sargeant.

    The top 10 is as follows for the final session of the 3 days:

    DriverTeamLaptime
    1Jack DoohanVan Amersfoort Racing1:22.354
    2Reece UshijimaCampos Racing1:22.545
    3Jonny EdgarTrident1:22.658
    4Alexander SmolyarVan Amersfoort Racing1:22.794
    5Filip UgranVan Amersfoort Racing1:22.801
    6Caio ColletMP Motorsport1:22.811
    7Hunter YeanyCampos Racing1:22.884
    8Zak O’SullivanCarlin Buzz Racing1:22.940
    9Logan SargeantCarlin Buzz Racing1:23.046
    10Isack HadjarHiTech Grand Prix1:23.011

    And this wraps up the post-season testing! Keep your eyes peeled for announcements on which drivers will be on track next year and when the testing calendar for 2022…