Benavides to make Formula 3 debut with Carlin in 2022

The American-Spanish driver makes the step up from the Euroformula Open Championship into F3.

Benavides scored points in eight of the final nine races of the season having joined the series midway through 2021.

His switch to EuroFormula was after a disappointing spell in Formula Regional European Championship, with no points in 10 races.

The 20-year-old will team up with fellow rookie and Williams F1 academy driver Zak O’Sullivan.

The Florida-born driver tested for the team in days one and three of the post-season Valencia test.

“I’ve been a die-hard fan of racing my whole life, and I now have in my hands the greatest opportunity I’ve ever had,” Benavides said. “I feel like, at the same time, my greatest achievements are closer than ever. I am going to give my maximum effort this season and make it one to be proud of.”

Team owner Trevor Carlin added: “Brad is still a very young driver at the start of his career. Making the step up to FIA F3 in only his second season in Europe will be a big learning curve but Brad has a fantastic attitude both in and out of the car.

“We’re delighted he has chosen to stay with the team for this next step in his career and we can’t wait to get started with testing later next month in Bahrain.”

The new F3 season gets underway alongside Formula 1 and Formula 2 in Bahrain next month on March 18-20.