Christian Mansell and Luke Browning will make their FIA Formula 2 debuts in Baku this weekend after both men impressed in Formula 3 this year.
Australian Mansell, who finished fifth with ART in the final F3 standings, will take the place of Roman Stanek at Trident, whilst Williams Academy driver Browning, who fell just short of the title in third, will take Zak O’Sullivan’s drive at ART.
Upon the news of his promotion, Mansell said: “I can’t wait to make my FIA Formula 2 debut with Trident Motorsport.
“I’m extremely happy to race with this Italian team on the Baku street circuit and in the next two events before the end of the season. It will be a fiery debut on a challenging track like the Azerbaijani one, but I must confess I’m more excited than nervous.”
Team Manager Giacomo Ricci said: “We are extremely delighted to field Australian driver Christian Mansell in the next three rounds of the FIA Formula 2 Championship. I consider him one of the most talented emerging drivers we have seen this year in the FIA Formula 3 Championship, where he was in contention for the title until the final round in Monza.
“Christian is a complete driver, quick in qualifying, and extremely good at managing tyres and overtaking. Making his debut in Baku will certainly be an ambitious goal, not easy at all.
“We have carried out dedicated preparation work with him, and I am convinced that it will pay dividends, especially if there will be no interruptions in the free practice session. I am sure there are all the conditions to do well.”
Browning’s inclusion at ART transpired through O’Sullivan’s incapability to complete the year due to funding issues.
Writing on his X account, O’Sullivan, a fellow Williams Academy driver, said: “Firstly, I want to thank ART GP and Williams Racing for all of the support they have given me. This year we have had some incredible moments, multiple wins and a big highlight of winning the feature race in Monaco.
“Unfortunately in our sport, there are more factors at play than just the stopwatch. The simple issue comes down to funding, I won’t be able to complete this F2 season with ART GP.
“I’m gutted to not be able to show my talents for the rest of the year, but I want to say thank you to all of my sponsors, Williams and all of the supporters who are alongside me during this journey. Your support has been invaluable and I can’t wait to be able to drive for you and with you again soon.”
