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The mix of talent on the 2011 GP3 Series grid may never be repeated. Why? Because now that the Formula 1-support category has established itself at this level after two years of existence, drivers are more likely to go there directly from the lower rungs of the single-seater ladder, rather than going to Formula 3 first and then moving across to the grand prix support bill in a bid for recognition.
So this year's field was something to savour. It was a blend of previous GP3 winners, up-and-coming rookies, and a clutch of stars with impressive F3 pedigree. It was always going to be a hotly-contested campaign, and one where the ability of whoever won the championship could not be called into question.
Ten winners from as many races told that story as the season reached the summer months. With so many drivers capable of winning on any given weekend, nobody could get a foothold in the title race.
But just because GP3 is asserting its dominance over F3 at the moment (in the driver market at least), that doesn't mean that everything has to change. Indeed, there was an air of familiarity when former F3 powerhouse ART Grand Prix found a competitive advantage mid-season, and the title fight became an exclusive battle between its lead drivers Valtteri Bottas and James Calado.
