Renault has added Oscar Piastri to its young driver scheme, with the Australian youngster sealing a seat at Prema for this year’s Formula 3 championship.
Piastri, 18, claimed last season’s Formula Renault Eurocup title, a championship previously won by current F1 drivers Valtteri Bottas (2008), Pierre Gasly (2013) and Lando Norris (2016).
Renault, which has previously outlined its desire to have one of its own drivers in F1 in 2021, is due to reveal the remainder of its Academy line-up across Monday and Tuesday.
Prema swept up in last year’s rejuvenated Formula 3 championship, with Robert Shwartzman, Marcus Armstrong and Jehan Daruvala 1-2-3 in the standings.
Confirmation of Piastri’s deal completes Prema’s 2020 line-up, having already recruited Logan Sargeant and reigning Formula Regional European champion Frederik Vesti.
“I am very excited to join the Renault Sport Academy for 2020 and I can’t wait to get into the new season with Prema Racing in Formula 3,” said Piastri.
“Many talented drivers have come through the Academy and there is a strong line-up this year, so I’m looking forward to learning as much as I can from the fellow members.
“It was hard work getting to this point in my career having won the Formula Renault Eurocup last year, but it was all worth it, and I’m extremely proud to now be part of this illustrious team and Academy and maximising their support.”
