As much speculation, Cypriot race ace Tio Ellinas returns to the GP3 Series for the 2013 season, staying with the Marussia Manor team.
The 21-year-old has also secured a place on Marussia F1’s Young Driver Programme, which includes a drive at a test at this year’s Young Driver Test.
Ellinas finished 8th in the standings last season following a steady but impressive year, culminating in a race victory at Monza.
Although not always consistent threat for wins at each round, Ellinas did score in thirteen of the sixteen races throughout 2012 – a notable feat. This year, however, his eyes are only for the title: “After a strong end to the season in 2012 and a good winter test programme, I head to the first race at Barcelona full of confidence. It is going to be an interesting season.”
He added, “I am delighted that I will be returning with Marussia Manor Racing for a second season. The new GP3 car is fantastic to drive and I think the racing will be very exciting and highly competitive.”
Should Ellinas repeat his pre-season testing performances during the season, there is little doubt he will be fighting for top honours. Manor team boss and Marussia F1 Team Principal John Booth agrees: “Tio has a rare natural ability; certainly up there with the best of the drivers who have graduated through our junior programme,“ noted Booth.
The F1 boss continued, “The GP3 Series is looking very strong this year, the new car is a big step forward and the grid is full of the best young talent. It will be a tough season but we hope our preparations and strong driver line-up will put us in a good position to challenge for the Championship.”
Marussia Manor will also be running Dino Zamparelli, although the final seat in the team has yet to be confirmed – one of only three seats still to be announced {note 1}. The 2013 GP3 Series season kicks off in two-and-a-half weeks time at the Circuit de Catalunya as a support to the Spanish Grand Prix.
{note 1}
Aside from the empty seat at Marussia Manor, Bamboo Engineering have still to announce two drives for 2013.
