Juan Manuel Correa says it was a “no-brainer” to make a racing return in Formula 3, rather than Formula 2, when an opportunity arose with ART Grand Prix.
Correa sustained serious injuries in the high-speed Formula 2 accident in August 2019 that claimed the life of Anthoine Hubert.
Correa has since undergone a lengthy rehabilitation process, which included wearing a leg brace for over a year, and has had multiple surgeries.
Doctors initially doubted that he would be able to return to racing until 2022 but on Monday it was confirmed that he will race for ART GP in Formula 3.
Speaking to the official Formula 3 website, Correa explained that “there are a few reasons why I went with F3 in the end.
“Number one, because of the length of the season: it starts a bit later and finishes earlier and that gives me more of a buffer in case I need any other procedures.”
Formula 3’s season is due to begin in early May and end in October whereas Formula 2’s campaign is scheduled to run from March to December.
“Secondly, because of the teams in F2, to get a top seat was virtually impossible for me, whereas in F3 I had this amazing opportunity with ART.
“They weren’t the only team who I contacted to return to racing, but they were definitely the ones who believed in me the most.
“Well, Seb [Philippe, ART Team Manager] thought I was crazy at first! He thought I meant 2022 and he laughed when I replied ‘no, no, no… this year.’
“He took the time to meet with me and let me explain why it was possible. He believes in me and that means the world to me.
“We also cannot forget the pedigree that the team has. They were arguably the most successful team in GP3. It is a top team and the environment is amazing. I know some of the people there and in the end, it was a no-brainer.”
