Marlon Stockinger will race in the GP3 Series in 2011, stepping up to the category with the Atech CRS Grand Prix team.
The Swiss-Filipino driver has raced for Atech's Formula Renault UK squad in 2010, winning at Croft in June and finishing eighth in the final standings. After testing for the team at the recent GP3 tests, he will make the step up, joining fellow Formula Renault graduate Nick Yelloly in the three-car team.
“I feel great to be back with Atech for the upcoming season,” said Stockinger. “I think the team is great and that we will achieve good results next year.”
The 19-year-old is aiming high for his debut year in the category. “My aim is to be the top rookie and finish in the top five,” he said. “It's a lot to ask but I believe we can do it, given how well we did when I tested with the team in the winter tests. I'm looking forward to Monaco, because of the rich history and atmosphere it presents.
“The cars themselves are great and I felt at home within a couple of laps. It helped a lot that the systems like the steering wheel were the same as the Formula Renault making it an easy step. I'm happy to be competing with the best drivers, on the best tracks from all over the world, and look forward to a great season next year.”
Team Principal David Hayle added: “I'm really happy that Marlon is staying within the Atech family and progressing up the ladder with Atech CRS into GP3. His performances this season, including a dominant weekend at Croft, confirms how much he has improved over the past 12 months and it's been a pleasure to work with him and see him mature into a front-running driver.
“He's very well liked and a welcome addition to the team for 2011, and we look forward to seeing a continuation of his progress. I think continuity is very important, Marlon feels at home here and that's also very important.”
The team say they are currently in negotiations with two other drivers for the third seat and hope to confirm their full line-up soon.
