Ex-Red Bull F1 junior Richard Verschoor will make his debut in the GP3 Series at this weekend’s Spa-Francorchamps round.
Verschoor joined Red Bull’s scheme off the back of double title-winning seasons in Formula 4 in 2016 but left its programme after placing only ninth in Formula Renault 2.0.
The Dutch 17-year-old remained in FR 2.0 this season but has taken just a solitary podium finish and holds a low-key 11th in the standings.
Verschoor will replace F2-bound Dorian Boccolacci at MP Motorsport’s three-car team, linking up with fellow ex-Red Bull junior Niko Kari and Devlin DeFrancesco.
“It’s great that I’m able to take another step up the motorsport ladder,” said Verschoor.
“The GP3 Series is a highly competitive series that showcases itself on Grand Prix weekends in front of Formula 1 teams. The fact that I’m going to drive for MP again feels like coming home.
"Spa is the most beautiful track for my GP3 debut: it’s not only a great track, but it’s going to be a great experience to race in front of grandstands packed with Dutch fans.”
Added team boss Sander Dorsman: "It’s great to have Richard back in the team.
“We have celebrated many triumphs together and we are determined to add success in GP3.
"It all coincides beautifully: Dorian Boccolacci grabs his opportunity with us in Formula 2, and Richard’s is a well-deserved promotion. And then for him to make his debut in front of a ‘home audience’ at Spa!”
