Will Palmer, younger brother of ex-F1 driver Jolyon, will compete in the GP3 Series this year with MP Motorsport.
Palmer, 21, finished as runner-up in last year’s Eurocup Formula Renault 2.0 and tested for Arden at the end of 2017, before linking up with MP Motorsport during 2018 pre-season testing.
On Wednesday MP Motorsport confirmed that Palmer will complete its three-driver team for the new season, alongside Dorian Boccolacci and Niko Kari, which begins in Spain next weekend.
“It’s wonderful to be able to make the step up to GP3”, said Palmer. “I’m very happy to do so with MP Motorsport.
“The Barcelona test gave me the confidence that together we can get the job done.
“Having two very strong and experienced team-mates in Niko and Dorian will provide me with a good benchmark, as well as help me to quickly get to grips with the car and the category.”
Confirmation of Palmer’s deal means 19 drivers are confirmed for 2018; Trident is expected to field Pedro Piquet, bringing the grid size up to 20.