F3 format change for 2001
The format of the British Formula 3 championship is to change for next year with every round being a double-header. The change comes in response to the demand for more track time from the teams
Each F3 round will consist of two 20-minute races, both taking place on the same day. Qualifying will change accordingly and will be run over two stand-alone 30-minute sessions, one to decide the grid for each of the races.
"The teams have been asking for more track time," explained PowerTour Series Director Roger Etcell, "and we have responded to that with our new proposals.
"The British F3 Championship has been the recognised training ground for Formula 1 stars of tomorrow for many years. The increased track time will help to teach the young drivers and help equip them for F1. The BRDC is committed to helping young talent and this announcement underlines that view."
The BRDC has also announced that a grant of £125,000 will again be awarded to any British driver under the age of 25 who wins the British F3 Scholarship class. The class allows teams to compete with two-year-old cars in an attempt to make the category open to drivers while keeping the costs down. The award is the biggest to be offered by a motor racing club.
"Formula 3 is the most important training ground for young drivers," said new BRDC President Jackie Stewart, "and the BRDC is determined to help find the British F1 drivers of tomorrow. This award will help them progress to Grand Prix racing."
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