A trio of Australian drivers have tested Formula 3 machinery in Europe this week as they assess options for next season.
CAMS Jayco Australian Formula 4 champion Jordan Lloyd, series runner-up Thomas Randle and German F4 driver Joseph Mawson jumped behind the wheel of F3 cars at the Valencia and Jerez circuits.
Randle joined British operation T-Sport to pilot the squad’s 2015 specification Dallara Honda alongside highly rated Indian driver Arjun Maini.
The Victorian completed more than 70 laps over the two days with the experience strengthening his ambitions to compete in the category next year.
Randle lapped within 0.38s of Maini.
“The car was absolutely awesome to drive, and very punishing on the body but I felt fine doing over 70 laps on each of the two days,” said Randle.
“The team was great, and having Arjun there gave me a better insight into not only my performance but also how to master these cars.
“Arjun was a standout in TRS in New Zealand earlier in the year and I knew he would be a good yardstick for me to try and chase – he’s also a ripper guy.
“I just want more. Now that I’ve been and sampled Euro F3 I truly hope I can secure the backing I need to come back and be a part of the championship.”
Australian F4 champion Lloyd who joined the renowned Carlin squad as part of his reward for winning the championship.
“The team were extremely professional and allowed me to grow throughout the day,” said Lloyd.
“The car felt like it was stuck to the road. I’m grateful for the opportunity to work with Carlin and to drive one of their cars.”
Meanwhile, Mawson completed a run out with Euro Formula Open championship winning team RP Motorsport at Spain’s Jerez circuit.
The 19-year-old will head back to Australia next week when his four-day test concludes.
Australian F4 driver Zane Goddard was also in action at Valencia testing for German F4 squad Jenzer Motorsport.