For the first time since 2014, representatives from the British Formula 3 Championship will compete in the Masters of Formula 3. Racing for Carlin, the pair of Colton Herta and Ameya Vaidyanathan have qualified because of the series, as well as Nikita Mazepin and Australia’s Thomas Randle.
The news was notable as it ended speculation that the BRDC British F3 Championship would not allow drivers to qualify on accord of its non-Formula 3 specifications.
It also opens the door to suggestion that the series will allow driver to qualify for the prestigious Macau Grand Prix. If this is the case, it could cement the role of EuroFormula Open, which allowed Yarin Stern to qualify for this non-championship event last year.
Both the BRDC F3 and soon the EF Open series will hold the title of F3 Light. With the proven qualification to compete in the these events, it could open the door for other national F3 championships to be re-established in coming years.
Randle, a last minute entry, will compete for Double R Racing as their sole driver. Poignantly, the last time the team competed was in 2014, with the last two British F3 drivers; Andy Chang and Camren Kaminsky.
“This is just a great opportunity and despite the short notice when it came up I jumped at it.” said Randle. “Double R Racing field very competitive machinery and the car I am driving was driven to third place by Alexander Sims at Macau last year so I’m sure it will serve me well.”
“I loved every second of driving the Dallara F3 when I did the Valencia test late last year and the Zandvoort circuit looks like it will suit my style.”
So far, 16 drivers have been announced for the event at Zandvoort this weekend. As well as a number of drivers for the FIA European Formula 3 Championship, #18 Ricky Capo will represent the Australian Formula 3 Championship for the first time in the Master’s 24 year history.