Following on from a a successful debut with the ART Grand Prix GP3 team when he underwent a test session on the Abu Dhabi circuit late last year, ART GP is pleased to announce the signing of a very talented young racer for the upcoming 2014 GP3 Championship season. 21-year-old Alex Fontana will join the French based squad in their quest for their fifth consecutive championship crown in one of the best junior series.
The Swiss/Greek Driver brings a wealth of experience to the team after spending two partial seasons in the series, 2011 and 2012 before taking that all important step forward into a full season in 2013 where he delivered some promising results, including a podium finish. Also to his credit is a highly successful season in F2 where he secured one win and three podium finishes. Now signing on with the Art Grand Prix team, Alex is hoping to follow in the footsteps of other racers who have moved on to the Formula One series, such as Esteban Gutierrez and Valtteri Bottas who clinched the GP3 crown with ART GP respectively back in 2010 and 2011.
Alex also became a member of the Lotus F1 Junior Team in 2013 and spent time behind the wheel of the 2010 R30 for a test at the Paul Ricard circuit last September.
Alex Fontana said: “I am extremely pleased to have the opportunity to work with a team that has topped the championship like ART Grand Prix and I believe that no other team can allow me to better develop my skills. Our collaboration started very well during winter testing and although I still have to get familiar with people and with the teams method of working, my experience of the car and especially of the GP3 Series, the professionalism at ART Grand Prix will help me to complete this mission. I have been training both physically and mentally to maximize this tremendous opportunity given to me and I would like to thank ART Grand Prix and the Lotus F1 Junior Team. My goal is to always be at the forefront and be consistent throughout the season, because it is a crucial factor for the overall championship results.”
Frédéric Vasseur commented: “Alex’s first steps with ART Grand Prix in November 2013 in Abu Dhabi convinced us that he would be an asset to the team in its quest for a fifth consecutive title. Alex has adapted quickly to his new work environment and has proven his talent throughout the recent three days of testing. His technical qualities, speed and knowledge of the GP3 Series will help us get off to a good start in the early races, something that is essential in such a competitive championship series such as GP3.”
ART Grand Prix Press Release
