Prema has recruited Sean Gelael for next year’s Formula 2 championship, becoming the first driver to sign up for the category.
Gelael stepped up to F2/GP2 mid-2015 with Carlin and moved across to Campos for 2016, taking 15th in the standings, via a podium finish in Austria.
Gelael switched to Arden this year and again holds 15th position, but will link up with Prema in 2018, and drive for the team at next week’s Yas Marina test.
“Driving for such a successful team, so rich in history, is a great opportunity for every driver,” said Gelael.
“Hopefully we will be able to build something important together with the team.
“We will go for a strong start at the Abu Dhabi post season tests to build the momentum.
“Everything will be new next year, a new car and challenge.
“I’m excited to take the next step for my third year in Formula 2 and hopefully we can achieve some good results.”
Gelael made his Formula 1 debut earlier this year, conducting a handful of test days and FP1 sessions with Toro Rosso.
Added Team Principal René Rosin: “I’m proud to welcome Sean to our team.
“With his multifaceted experience, he will definitely be a key resource for the 2018 Formula 2 season as we will need to adapt to a brand-new car.
“In our first year in the series, we decided to field a mix of an experienced driver and a rookie, while this season we went for an all-rookie program. In both cases, the results proved us right.
“For next year though, there will be a new factor in play and we will rely on experience to speed-up the development of the 2018 Dallara.
“Having raced and adapted himself to such diverse environments in the past, I’m sure that Sean will be able to meet his expectations and contribute to more success for the team.”
