Spa-Francorchamps race-winner Tommy Smith will graduate to the FIA Formula 3 Championship with Van Amersfoort Racing in 2023.
Smith participated in his first full GB3 campaign with Douglas Motorsport this year, with other highlights including a podium at Oulton Park and top-five finishes at Donington Park and Snetterton.
“I am absolutely thrilled about this opportunity” Smith said. “Having raced in both FRECA and GB3 championships, stepping up to the FIA F3 feels like the right next move.
“I’m certainly aware that it will be a challenging season in which I will have to learn and adapt continuously, but I am convinced I am taking on this challenge with the right team. VAR’s achievements already in their first year competing in FIA F3 are a clear indicator of their level of commitment, and I look very much forward to get started with them and the championship!”
“We are excited to have Tommy as part of our driver line-up” says Rob Niessink, CEO of Van Amersfoort Racing. “He is new to the FIA F3 Championship, but Tommy’s time spent in FRECA and GB3 will certainly help him to pick up quickly.
“Tommy is very eager to learn and quickly book progress. He showed this positive attitude already in the past and that will help both Tommy and the crew to jumpstart the season. We look very much forward to supporting him in this important next step of his career!”
Smith is one of five GB3 alumni to have already confirmed plans to join the FIA F3 grid in 2023, further demonstrating GB3’s credentials as a prime feeder series to the F1 paddock. Three alumni have also announced entries into FIA F2 next year.