Carlin hopeful of strong Masters

The event is returning to its usual August slot this year after it was moved to June last year to allow for the final year of Marlboro sponsorship before tobacco advertising legislation was brought in, and combines the top drivers from major Formula Three series across Europe.

F3 Euroseries runners are generally perceived to have the advantage in the event because they are used to running on Kumho tyres, which is the control brand used in the Masters. The British F3 series uses Avon tyres.

Since the F3 Euroseries was formed in 2003, runners from their series have always won the Masters. However, Carlin is hopeful that trend can be broken this year.

"After last weekend in Spa it was clear that our cars are very competitive and we feel confident that we are on top of the game," he said, speaking of Maro Engel's race two victory.

"It's always hard to tell how well we compare with the Euroseries teams and drivers attending because of the use of different tyres but we will give it our best shot.

"There are some strong teams and good drivers out there and we are looking forward to this weekend. We have a really good driver line-up this year and I feel all of our drivers are in with a good chance of a podium if they stay out of trouble."

Carlin will take their British F3 runners of Engel, Christian Bakkerud and BRDC McLaren Autosport award winner Oliver Jarvis to the Dutch event. They will also be joined by Brazilian newcomer Mario Moraes.