Van der Merwe gets Carlin drive

After two days of testing with the Carlin outfit at Pembrey last week, Van der Merwe, who is currently fourth in the British Formula Ford Zetec championship standings, has landed one of the most coveted seats in British F3.

The young South African will line up alongside BAR test driver Anthony Davidson and team boss Trevor Carlin believes his best is yet to come.

"I've known Alan for quite a while now, " said Carlin. "He gets on very well with Anthony and he's been quite close to the team for most of the year. I think he's a dark horse. He went better than we had originally hoped [at Pembrey] - he had no spins, no offs and just got quicker and quicker. For sure, he hasn't peaked yet."

McLaren Autosport BRDC Award winner Davidson is currently fourth in this year's standings and is hoping to take over Sato's place at the top in 2002. The Japanese ace wrapped up the title at Thruxton 10 days ago with two rounds still to run and has yet to announce his plans for next year.

Van der Merwe has signed to Carlin for two years and the South African is aiming to learn the ropes next year before aiming for the title in 2003.

"Carlin is definitely the top team in F3," said van der Merwe. "They have proved that this season and I will know when I go into races that I have got the best possible equipment at my disposal. F3 will be a two-year project for me, but the team has such a wealth of knowledge about how to run at the front that I will be able to accelerate my learning process."