Esteban Ocon is to graduate to the FIA European Formula 3 Championship with Prema Powerteam and van Amersfoort Racing respectively.
Ocon moves to Formula 3 after taking 3rd overall in the Eurocup Formula Renault Series after taking two wins, three podiums and a pole position with the ART Junior Team.
Hailing from Normandy, Ocon impressed Prema Powerteam at a test late last year, prior to making his international Formula 3 début with the Italian team at the Macau Grand Prix in November {note 1}.
For Prema team boss René Rosin, choosing Ocon was not a difficult task. “When we evaluated new, young drivers to add to our team for the 2014 season, we haven’t had any doubts on Ocon, as he proved his talent throughout his developmental path.”
According to Rosin, Ocon’s performance at Macau further cemented his belief in the French youngster and is sure that he will be a threat in this season’s championship. “This impression was corroborated by facts during the test held during the Macau weekend, when he progressively improved his pace and made it to the top-10 on one of the world’s toughest street courses. I definitely think that Ocon will be a frontrunner in the FIA Formula 3 European Championship.”
Being part of the Lotus Junior Team, as co-managed by Gravity Sport Management boss and Formula One team principal Eric Boullier will ensure Ocon has some pressure on his young shoulders; however the Frenchman is sure he is more than ready for the task at hand. “I’m very happy and proud to have been chosen by Prema Powerteam for the 2014 campaign,” he said, before adding: “After Macao and the winter tests, I feel ready to deliver and carry the Prema and Lotus F1 Junior Team colours to the top.”
Ocon joins Dennis van de Laar at Prema, with Antonio Fuoco’s confirmation expected shortly.
{note 1}
Ocon drove for Prema Powerteam in the great race, taking 10th in both the qualifying race and the overall Grand Prix event, in what was his first top level Formula 3 event.
