Brit F3: Steele to make series debut at Snet with Litespeed

Aaron Steele will be added to Litespeed’s British Formula 3 roster for the championship’s upcoming round at Snetterton next weekend.

The 20 year-old from Rochester tested with the outfit at the same Norfolk venue on Tuesday where a troublesome seat allied to technical problems limited his running to just 29 laps in the team’s eponymous chassis. A further test, as well as a trip to the factory for another seat fitting, is planned before his series debut on July 5.

Steele, who was a surprise McLaren Autosport Award finalist last season following his miraculous exploits in the Formula Palmer Audi end-of-season shootout, will join Litespeed’s regular driver Victor Correa in the National Class.

Despite his initial problems with the car, Steele was pleased with the all round effort of the team.

“The team worked through the night to make sure the car was ready for the test and there are so many positives going forward,” he said. “From the little running I had, I felt confident with the car. It was enjoyable to drive, although I need more time to establish exactly what it can achieve. Racing for Litespeed F3 is a mega opportunity and it's important that I have good races and achieve good results. I'm confident that we'll shortly be right up there.”

Team Principal Nino Judge meanwhile was impressed with Steele’s attitude. 

“Aaron Steele is an extremely talented young driver who has the potential to go all the way to Formula 1,” he said. This is not just because of his proven technical understanding and racing ability; he also has the right temperament – he's ambitious but not egotistical, which makes him a marketable driver. He brings his legitimate aspirations to Litespeed F3 and in return we will give him the opportunities and support that such a naturally gifted driver deserves. We're always interested in supporting talented British drivers.”

Although there are no plans to contest the full second half of 2009, Steele is hopeful of returning at the season-ending round at Brands Hatch, his home circuit, in September.

Catch British F3 coverage on Motors TV throughout 2009.


Tom Hornsby