Indian racer Zaamin Jaffer has announced his graduation into the Formula Renault BARC Championship for 2011. The 20 year old will drive for reigning champions Hillspeed and moves into the series after two years in the Formula Ford Championship of Great Britain.
After moving to the UK in 2009, the Cardiff-based driver began his car racing career in the Scholarship class of the Formula Ford series, picking up several class podiums on his way to fourth in the class standings. Moving into the main class for 2010, Jaffer suffered a tough year, with a best finish of fifth at Donington Park as he finished 16th in the drivers' standings.
Jaffer cannot wait to get behind the wheel of his new car: “I'm really looking forward to my first test in the Renault with Hillspeed at Donington next week”, said Zaamin, “Last season in Formula Ford was tough and I had quite a bit of bad luck so I wasn't able to show my true speed. I'm aiming to put that behind me in 2011 though.
“It's an exciting time for me, I've got a new challenge ahead and with a strong team like Hillspeed behind me, along with the support of iZone Driver Performance, I hope to be challenging for the championship title.”
Hillspeed team principal Richard Ollerenshaw added: “It's great to have agreed a deal already with Zaamin, he'll be a welcome addition to the team and although last season was a tough one for him we know he has good pace and we're sure he'll shine in BARC next year.
“Next season will be a critical one for him but if we're able to start off well with some good test mileage under our belts, I'm sure it'll be possible for Zaamin to fight for the championship. Our plan is to be at the sharp end from the start of the season and to obviously try and retain our title.”