Jimmy Eriksson steps up with GP3 Series move for 2013
The Swede is the first driver to be confirmed at Status Grand Prix for 2013.
Satoshi Noma
Reigning ATS Formula 3 Cup champion Jimmy Eriksson is set to race in the GP3 Series – one of the championships on the Formula 1 support bill – in 2013.
The 21-year-old Swede has signed a deal with UK-based outfit Status Grand Prix, who sport the second highest number of race wins in the category since its inception in 2010, as he prepares for an important step into the limelight at some of the world’s most significant motor racing events.
Eriksson’s foray into GP3 coincides with the introduction of the new-generation GP3/13 car, which will be used in the series in the years ahead and which is expected to lap at least three seconds faster than its predecessor.
“I’m very excited about this new challenge, and about the prospect of racing in a championship which is part of the Formula 1 experience,” says Jimmy Eriksson.
“I had a strong season in Formula 3 last year, and I’m really looking forward to build on that momentum with Status Grand Prix in 2013.
They have a good reputation and have demonstrated that they are serious about our collaboration, and with a new car coming in this year, this is definitely the right time for me to enter the GP3 arena.
Engine output will increase from 280 to 400 bhp, and the move away from turbos will necessitate a brand new driving style – and that can only be a positive for any rookie.
Eriksson is the first driver to be confirmed at Status Grand Prix for 2013, and the squad is adamant that the Swede will be right on the pace.
“Jimmy is perfectly poised to make the step to the GP3 Series, and the whole team will benefit from his experience and speed,” says team principal Teddy Yip.
“He did a great job in winning the German F3 title last season, and I have watched him racing in Macau for the past two years where he has impressed me.
Jimmy is definitely ready to win races together with Status Grand Prix and I believe we can have a real impact on the GP3 title fight.”
The 2013 GP3 curtain-raiser takes place at the Spanish Grand Prix in Barcelona on May 10-12. A total of eight rounds are pencilled in for the up-coming campaign, with the finale set to be staged at the spectacular Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi in the beginning of November.
Jimmy Eriksson
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