Leonardo Pulcini will return to the FIA Formula 3 Championship at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya this weekend, becoming the third different driver to occupy Carlin’s #27 car.
The Italian raced in the series last year for Hitech, picking up a race win at Silverstone, before finishing eighth in the Drivers’ Standings.
The 22-year-old previously completed in the GP3 Series before it morphed into Formula 3.
Pulcini will take the place of Ben Barnicoat, who competed in the last two rounds at Silverstone following the departure of Enaam Ahmed, he will now focus on his sports car commitments in the British GT Championship with McLaren at Donington Park this weekend.
“This was something of an unexpected call up to return to the FIA F3 Championship,” said Pulcini.
“But, of course I am excited to be back on track an F3 car in Barcelona. The team have obviously made some good progress in recent weeks and we will be working hard to continue that trend this weekend.”
Team Principal Trevor Carlin added: “We’d firstly like to thank McLaren for allowing Ben to race with us at Silverstone but of course his McLaren programme remains his priority so we understand he can’t be with us in Barcelona.
“Leo will be a fantastic asset to the team this weekend. He has great experience in the series, is a proven race winner and will provide useful feedback as we continue our upward progression. We’re grateful he was able to join us this weekend between his Italian GT commitments.”
