Merhi to make GP3 debut in Valencia
An unexpected call up from the Atech CRS GP team will allow Spanish Formula 3 Euro Series race winner Roberto Merhi to make his GP3 debut at the Valencia Street Circuit this weekend
Merhi was invited by the British squad to participate in last week's GP3 collective test at his home circuit of Cheste, Valencia's permanent track.
The Spaniard delivered a strong showing, missing out on the fastest time of the day due to a red flag when on a hot lap. Atech team boss David Hayle was persuaded from the showing to entrust Merhi with his third car for this weekend. The arrangement is understood to be a one-off deal.
Merhi's relationship with David Hayle dates back to 2008, when they worked together at the Hitech Formula 3 team for two international meetings: the Formula 3 Masters and the Macau Grand Prix.
"I want to thank the Atech team for this opportunity to compete in front of my public at my home Grand Prix," said Merhi.
"I have known David Hayle for some years, since I ran in a team under his patronage at Zandvoort and Macau two seasons ago. I know that they are going through a tough patch in GP3 at the moment, but I do not have any doubts with respect to the quality of the team, and it fills me with pride that they have thought of me in order to help carry their car forward towards the top positions.
"I am going to enter these races with confidence and will be out for victory this weekend. After this meeting I will focus again on my commitments in the F3 Euro Series."
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