OSCAR PIASTRI TO TEST GP3 IN ABU DHABI

Oscar Piastri on the podium in Formula Renault – Photo: Dutch Photo Agency

Young Australian racer Oscar Piastri will partake in the three-day end-of-season GP3 test at Abu Dhabi ahead of a possible move to the new Formula 3 category in 2019.

Piastri, who was the best of the Australian contingent competing in Formula Renault 2.0 Eurocup finishing eighth in the championship with three podiums in his rookie year, is currently assessing options for progressing his career in 2019 and looking to use the opportunity to gain further experience on the unique Pirelli tyres.

“The new FIA F3 car is basically the current GP3 car’s engine and running gear in a new chassis that incorporates the halo and other safety improvements so there shouldn’t be any big surprises with the package.” said Piastri.

“I’ve done a few days testing in the older GP3 car to prepare for this week has been a lot of fun, the power is fantastic and the sound of the engine is incredible.”

“I did my first ever race at Abu Dhabi in the UAE F4 Championship in 2016 so I know the track which will help a bit. I’m sure there will be a lot of rubber down with all the F1 running this week so I’m really looking forward to it.”

The recent Formula 3 category merges and changes have thrown a lot of drivers plans into turmoil, with Regional F3, FIA International F3 and a new Formula Renault category the potential choices for the young Australian.

“We’ll announce our plans for 2019 soon after this test.” Piastri continued.

“We’ve got a number of teams offering seats for next year in all three categories so there’s some options to consider and decisions to make.”

“Now that I’ve learned all the European tracks this past year in Formula Renault, I’m really focused on signing with a competitive team and getting some strong results for my sponsors in 2019.”

Piastri will test with both the Trident and Jenzer GP3 teams in Abu Dhabi.

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