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Trident Motorsport have revealed that Leonardo Fornaroli will step up to Formula 3 next season.
Fornaroli took part in the post-season test in Jerez alongside his future teammates, Gabriel Bortoleto and Oliver Goethe (Photo by Joe Portlock – Formula 1/Formula Motorsport Limited via Getty Images)The 18-year-old previously raced for the team in FRECA (Formula Regional European Championship by Alpine), where he finished in eighth position. After taking the Rookie of the Year title, Fornaroli will continue his relationship with Trident in F3.
The Italian racer is set to partner Oliver Goethe and Gabriel Bortoleto. All three have had experience in F3 following their participation in the post-season test, where Fornaroli set the eighth-fastest time.
The young driver started his single-seater career back in 2020, making his debut in the Italian F4 championship.
Following a top-ten finish in the standings, he remained in the series for another season. This saw him achieve one victory and seven podiums, launching him to fifth place.
Trident ready to take on a new challenge
The announcement comes off the back of an incredibly successful 2022 season for the Italian team.
Trident were engaged in a fierce championship battle with PREMA, mainly thanks to their strong driver lineup. Jonny Edgar, Roman Stanek and Zane Maloney earned an impressive 301 points between them.
With Maloney taking on a late title charge, the team eventually finished in second.
The season proved that Trident have an eye for young talent, which should carry over into 2023. The team expressed their optimism for the new signing.
“Leonardo Fornaroli is without a doubt a promising young driver and we are proud to be with him in his debut in Formula 3,” said Giacomo Ricci, Team Manager at Trident.
He continued: “The path followed by Leonardo testifies the great work value made by Trident Motorsport to help young talents grow in minor categories with the goal of helping and preparing them for a future in Formula 1.”
“Leonardo is a competitive driver who is determined to reach his goals. Trident Motorsport will be by his side to help him in his debut in one of the most fascinating and competitive categories in Motorsport. We are certain that he has what it takes to succeed.”
On Fornaroli’s side, he referred to Trident as “the best place to keep growing and learning”.
He finished by thanking those involved with the Italian outfit that has thus far supported his junior career.
“I would like to thank Maurizio Salvadori and his team for the trust and confidence they have in me,” the 18-year-old stated. “I also would like to thank my family, my manager, my coach and my sponsors for their ongoing support and help.”
Featured Image Credit: Getty Images