Josh Webster to move into GP3 with Status in 2013

Webster, who finished runner-up in last year's Formula Renault BARC championship, made his debut for the team yesterday as pre-season testing commenced at Estoril.

The 19-year-old said he was not setting unrealistic targets given the magnitude of his step up and the fact he has only driven one of the eight circuits GP3 will visit this year.

"GP3 is a massive step up for me and I am under no illusion about how much I have to learn, but it will be a fantastic experience and it's great to be at the first test this week at Estoril," Webster explained.

"Apart from learning about the car and the European circuits, the Pirelli tyres will also take some getting used to but I'm up for the challenge.

"Of course I hope to do well but I am also aware of the fact that I haven't driven at seven of the eight circuits we will be competing at this season, so this will undoubtedly be a learning year for me.

"I see GP3 as a two-year programme and I intend to put some solid foundations in place as quickly as I can."

Team principal Teddy Yip backed Webster to impress, adding: "Josh has been a clearly visible talent on the British scene over the past few seasons, and we believe his performances will turn heads this year.

"His test and simulator runs have been impressive, and we look forward to a strong season."

2013 GP3 Series line-up so far:

ART          Jack Harvey          Facu Regalia     tba
MW Arden     Daniil Kvyat         Carlos Sainz Jr  Robert Visoiu
Carlin       Eric Lichtenstein    Luis Sa Silva    Nick Yelloly
Jenzer       Patric Niederhauser  Alex Fontana     Samin Gomez
Manor        Dino Zamparelli      tba              tba
Status       Jimmy Eriksson       Josh Webster     tba
Bamboo       tba                  tba              tba
Trident      Emanuele Zonzini     David Fumanelli  tba
Koiranen     Kevin Korjus         Aaro Vainio      Patrick Kujala