GB3 front runner James Hedley will step up to the FIA Formula 3 Championship at Monaco this weekend, deputising for Matias Zagazeta at the Jenzer Motorsport squad.
Hedley has raced in GB3 since the end of 2021, and was a title challenger last year courtesy of wins at Oulton Park and Snetterton.
The British driver has continued to race in the series at the start of this year, remaining with the VRD Racing by Arden squad, and competed in the first two events at Oulton Park and Silverstone.
With Jenzer’s Zagazeta ruled out of the Monaco rounds with appendicitis, Hedley now has the chance to impress in front of the F1 paddock, as he makes his debut around one of the most iconic circuits around the world. He joins fellow GB3 graduate Max Esterson at the squad, and is the ninth driver on the FIA F3 grid with GB3 experience.
“I got a phone call yesterday [Tuesday] at 4pm and it’s happening, I am racing FIA F3 at Monaco!” Hedley said. “It’s a dream come true. I have to thank Gary Catt and Jenzer team for putting their faith in me and my loyal sponsors Hendy and Clive Emson and Pirelli. There’s no time for sim preparation but I will focus on the drive and give it everything. Thank you to everyone helping me get to Monaco.”
Team principal Andreas Jenzer added: “After losing Matias with an appendicitis operation time was running out. We have previously been in contact with James regarding FIA F3. It's a jump into the deep end, but also a great opportunity for him. James has a great single seater experience in GB3. We look forward to building up lap by lap!”