MSA Formula racer Matheus Leist to make European F3 debt

German driver Pohler sustained a broken arm in a cycling accident following the last European F3 round at Zandvoort,

Team boss Anthony Hieatt acknowledged that jumping straight into F3 was a big step for 17-year-old Brazilian Leist, who is currently third in the MSA Formula standings.

"Matheus isn't expecting much from the Red Bull Ring, he knows it's going to be a huge learning curve and a major challenge against some very quick and experienced drivers," said Hieatt.

"Racing in FIA F3 can't be underestimated, it's one of the hardest and most competitive categories in the world at any level but it's an exciting opportunity for Matheus at this point of his career.

"We're all really looking forward to seeing how he gets on."

Leist made his car-racing debut at F3 level last season, when he competed in the Brazilian series' B class, finishing second and achieving an outright podium finish in the Curitiba round.

His European F3 appearance is set to be a one-off as Pohler expects to be fit for the next round at Algarve in September.

"Everyone at Double R is obviously wishing Nici a speedy recovery from his injury, he broke his arm after falling off a bike in training in Italy, but he's fully focused on being back for the next round in Portimao," said Hieatt.