Tom Gladdis has confirmed he will race in the FIA Formula Two Championship in 2011.
The British driver made his debut in the series in 2009, where he was the youngest driver in the field. After picking up a couple of points finishes he remained in F2 for 2010, but only took part in the rounds at Silverstone, Brands Hatch and Brno due to sponsorship difficulties. Despite his lack of running he finished an impressive second place at Brands Hatch.
Gladdis has now committed to a full season for 2011, despite suffering a serious foot injury that resulted in the amputation of three toes on his left foot during the winter. He has benefited from the support of Silver Lining, who sponsored champion Dean Stoneman last year.
“My main motivation is to finish consistently in the points and challenge for the race wins,” said Gladdis. “I want to thank my family and my sponsors, especially Silver Lining who sponsored Dean Stoneman last year, for the chance to compete and I'd like to pick up where Dean left off and reward their faith in me.
“We had some struggles last year, and the injury to my foot has been quite serious. My family have always been hugely supportive though and it's made me realise just how fortunate I am – and made me hungrier than ever. I've really fought for my place on the grid this season, and I'm absolutely determined to make the most of it.
“To be honest coming back to F2 is like coming back to a family, and I'm delighted to be back. I learned a lot when I competed in 2009, but with hindsight I made a lot of mistakes as well. Then in 2010 I had a break between the opening round at Silverstone and Brands Hatch, and that really focussed me and made me realise just how much I want to be racing. If you want something you push for it, and this year is all about taking everything I have learned and pushing harder than ever for success.”
Formula Two Chief Executive Jonathan Palmer is pleased to see Gladdis returning to action in the series. “I am delighted that Tom Gladdis will be returning to F2 in 2011,” said Palmer. “F2 was a big jump for him in 2009 but he rose to the challenge very well, and a year later he made a big jump in competitiveness with a brilliant second at Brands Hatch. Tom is a very promising talent and a real pleasure to have in F2, with a healthily calm and realistic approach. If he can maintain and build on his 2010 form Tom really can win the championship this year, and he certainly should be a podium contender.”
