Patricio Gonzalez was one of a number of drivers to make their GB3 debuts during the course of the 2025 season, with the young Mexican driver bolstering VRD Racing's line-up alongside his brother Rodrigo, and Thai contender Enzo Tarnvanichkul.
Having raced exclusively in the Americas since commencing his karting career in 2022, his four GB3 events marked the first time he'd experienced Grand Prix venues on the other side of the Atlantic, and he was blown away by the experience.
"It was an amazing experience racing in Europe, especially on iconic tracks like Monza. Everything felt new and exciting, and I really enjoyed every moment of it," Gonzalez commented.
"It was definitely a big challenge coming from the USA because everything is very different; the race starts, the tracks, the car, and even some of the regulations. It took time to adapt, but it was a great learning process."
The 17-year-old joined the series at Silverstone as the second half of the season commenced, and quickly whittled down his pace to join the fiercely-contested midfield pack by the end of the campaign, with a best qualifying result of seventh and a top race result of sixth.
"My target during the last four races was to learn as much as possible: the tracks, the car, and the overall racecraft in Europe. I focused on gaining experience so I can come back stronger in future years, and I feel like I achieved that."
His best qualifying and race performances came during the penultimate rounds of the year at Donington Park, and he admits the event was a standout for him.
"I feel I performed very well at Donington Park, especially in qualifying two and race two.
"It was my best result of the season, and I managed to hold my position even without having the strongest pace. Staying calm and consistent made the difference."
By joining GB3 alongside his brother, the Gonzalez pair became the first sibling line-up in the series, and he savoured the opportunity.
"It was an amazing experience to share those moments with my brother."
"Being able to race together and celebrate our achievements is something very special, and I’m grateful for it."
GB3 remains an option for Patricio as 2026 edges nearer, and he's been spotted testing with VRD at circuits in the UK and Europe. He's hopeful that additional experience will be beneficial should he return next year.
"I feel I’ll be much more confident arriving at each event already knowing the tracks and having more experience with the car. That should allow me to focus on performance from the start and hopefully move my way up toward the front of the field."