Billy Monger has become the latest Ginetta Junior graduate to enter MSA Formula for 2016, having been confirmed as JHR Developments’ third driver in their expanded entry.
Monger was a front-runner in the Ginetta’s last season with JHR, kicking off the season in perfect style with victory in the opening race at Brands Hatch.
Six other podium finishes would follow across the season, including a second victory at Snetterton, as he ended the season fifth in the final standings.
After two seasons in the Junior series, the 16 year old joins fellow Junior graduates Jamie Caroline, Devlin DeFrancesco and Frank Bird in making the switch to single-seaters in MSA Formula.
Monger first tested MSA Formula machinery at Donington Park in November, and got back behind the wheel at Brands Hatch yesterday alongside his new team-mates Sennan Fielding and Jack Butel.
“At this stage of my career, I really wanted to get some aerodynamic experience in single-seaters, which MSA Formula provides the perfect opportunity for, whilst also keeping me on the BTCC package which attracts much needed sponsors,” Monger told TCF.
“JHR were always going to be my first choice to run with, they are determined and passionate just like myself, and with the relationship I have built up with all of them in Juniors I couldn’t be in a better place right now.
“My hopes for the season are to make as many improvements as possible early on, to make up for my lack of testing compared to my competitors. I’d love to be trying to fight for podium finishes from the word go!”
JHR boss Steven Hunter added: “I’m delighted to have signed Billy to our team. We had Billy racing with us last year and he certainly showed some serious promise. Then he tested a MSA Formula car and his pace was at that of a very experienced single-seater driver. I’ve no doubt that Billy will be very quick this year.”