Ayrton Simmons to make F3 debut with Charouz at Sochi

With Yeany having other commitments in America, British driver Simmons will make his debut in Formula 3 at the season finale in Russia.

Simmonds has spent the last four years racing in the GB3 Championship (previously known as the BRDC British F3 Championship), where he sits fourth in the standings.

“I’m really looking forward to racing with Charouz Racing System,” said Simmons. “I want to thank the team and also my sponsors for giving me this opportunity e getting me to Sochi. 

“I’ve never driven the car before and never driven with Pirelli tyres so it’s probably going to be difficult at first to get used to everything having limited track time, but we’ll try to learn as much as possible, and I’ll make sure I’ll be as well-prepared as I can to deliver the best possible result.”

Charouz has enjoyed its best season to date with four podium finishes so far in 2021.

Team owner Antonín Charouz added: “I’m sorry that Hunter will not be able to finish the season with us, but unfortunately the change in the calendar was necessary to allow all the teams to manage the participation in the last round of the championship and there was no way to reconcile this change with his other commitments in the US. 

“However, I’m happy that Ayrton was available to answer the call and take his seat, he is a promising driver who already has a few years of experience and I’m sure he will get up to speed in no time once in the car at Sochi.”