Photo: F3Open.net/Fotospeedy
Formula Renault 2.0 regular Edward Jones will make a full-time switch to European F3 Open in 2013. The 17-year-old Emiratee driver, now in contract with Team West-Tec, has become the first driver to be officially unveiled as a main-class regular in the series for next year.
2012 has been a difficult year for Jones as he struggled to make an impact in either of the FR2.0 series he was taking part in, yet he did manage to end it on a high note, guest driving for Team West-Tec during the final round of the 2012 F3 Open season, which yielded him an unexpected podium in the second race. The same can be said for the team which took the Team Championship in 2011 yet ended up far off in fourth this year.
The newly-signed F3 Open driver had this to say: “I really enjoyed my introduction to Formula 3 at the end of 2012 and I am very pleased to be returning in 2013. Our aim will be to fight for the title, and I am sure we can do that as I really enjoy driving the Dallara F312 car and have West-Tec’s experience and guidance behind me.”
One of the team’s co-owners, John Miller, commented on the signing: “I am delighted to welcome Ed back to the team, and I know everyone on the team is excited at the news. Ed made a really positive impact at the end of 2012 and I am certain he is going to be right at the front in 2013. He is a quick driver, technically able and a pleasure to have on the team.”
Jones is the third driver to have been announced by Team West-Tec for 2013 as it was announced earlier on that InterSteps graduates Cameron Twynham and Sean Walkinshaw would be competing in Copa F308/300, both running in Dallara F308s (as opposed to the superior F312s, which are only eligible for the main championship).