Clarke Signs for Raikkonen

The Briton, who is backed by music promoter Chas Cole, makes the move after an impressive rise up the junior categories and will become the team-mate of Bruno Senna, the nephew of the late Ayrton Senna.

Speaking about his graduation, Clarke said: "I'm a lucky boy. I'm very happy to be contesting the F3 championship against such a strong field of competitors, not least my own team-mate.

"Raikkonen Robertson Racing is a great team, created by one of the fastest drivers in F1 today and led by some fantastic engineering talent, so we have everything we need to do a good job. I learnt a lot in Formula Ford and I'll carry on learning here in F3. I've worked hard to get here and the only laurels I want to be resting on are the ones they give you on the podium!"

Raikkonen Robertson Racing is the brainchild of Formula One star Kimi Raikkonen and his manager Steve Robertson - who are hoping to put something back into the sport.

Raikkonen himself is convinced that the team has done well to sign up Clarke. "When we looked at all the future prospects Dan stood out of the pack as one to work with", said the Finn. "He is fast, he is determined, and as the Formula Ford Festival win showed, he has the mind of a champion."

The British F3 Championship kicks off at Donington Park on April 2/3.