Asian Motor Sports

British F3 racewinner Stephen Jelley will step up to GP2 this winter after landing a plum ride with double ’summer’ season champions ART Grand Prix.

The Briton will partner new F3 Euroseries champion Romain Grosjean in the two-car line-upfor the inaugural GP2 Asia competition, having impressed in post-season testing.

“Stephen was the best representative of the Raikkonen Robertson team in British F3 last year,” ART boss Frederic Vasseur explained, “He is a driver who has the experience of winning and he falls under the aims of our company to promote young talents as future prospects.

“ART Grand Prix is taking the new GP2 Asia challenge very seriously and will combine the best elements in the context given in order to be a regular visitor to the podium. It will also be a useful opportunity for Romain before taking part to the European championship.”

ART’s decision to run two Europeans in its line-up goes against the ethos of the series which wanted at least one seat at every team to be filled by a driver from Asia, but the team has apparently been allowed to field Jelley and Grosjean in the absence of readily-available ‘locals’, but may have to forgo any prize money earned. Jelley, however, is keen to experience the next step on the ladder.

“It is a great opportunity to be involved with what I believe is the best team on the grid, and I am really looking forward to it,” he said.

“GP2 is one of the most competitive championships there is. I have to learn and learn fast, because you don’t have much time to learn. ART seem really professional, it is obvious why they are a successful team, and I think we will have a great championship. I have no doubts at all with the equipment I have been given.”