The Formula 3 grid at this weekend’s Nürburgring round will have a handful of new additions, with Petru Florescu and Max Defourny set to join fellow debutant Sacha Fenestraz on the grid.
Florescu will link up with Motopark for the remainder of the season, while Defourny will pilot a Van Amersfoort Racing-run car at the Nürburgring, as he evaluates his 2018 options.
Carlin confirmed earlier this week that Fenestraz will make a one-off appearance at the former German Grand Prix venue, meaning three drivers will make their debuts this weekend.
“Joining Team Motopark on my FIA F3 debut is very exciting,” said Florescu.
![Alpine Managing Director Steve Nielsen [pictured with Executive Advisor Flavio Briatore] is stern in his belief Mercedes has acted correctly](https://www.motorsportweek.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Alpine-Steve-Nielsen-Flavio-Briatore-120x86.webp)
“I knew many of the people in the team and so I felt immediately at home.
“Team Motopark are not only very quick in the championship, but have also impressed me with their rigorous processes and clear structure.
“They will no doubt be able to help me understand the FIA F3 car, tyres and championship and even though it won’t be an easy endeavour as the level in the championship is really high, they will make me push myself during these three races.”
Defourny has tested at both Spa-Francorchamps and Brno, commenting: “Of course I am really happy to be here this week-end and have the opportunity to drive at the Nürburgring with Van Amersfoort Racing.
“We will obviously do our best on both sides to get the best out of it and see what it holds up for the future.”
![Alpine Managing Director Steve Nielsen [pictured with Executive Advisor Flavio Briatore] is stern in his belief Mercedes has acted correctly](https://www.motorsportweek.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Alpine-Steve-Nielsen-Flavio-Briatore-350x250.webp)
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