Having been linked to Dutch talents Charles Zwolsman and Jaap van Lagen, the KTR has made Tristan Gommendy its first signing for this year's World Series by
Renault.
The young French driver pipped his two rivals after impressing team boss Kurt Mollekens with his performance in both the Formula
Renault V6 and World Series by Nissan championships over the past couple of seasons, and with a resume that includes both the 2002 French
F3 and Macau Grand Prix titles.
Gommendy raced with countryman Serge Saulnier's team in Formula Nissan last year, proving to be among the fastest drivers in the series, although a win eluded him despite five podium finishes. He has not been present at many of the World Series winter tests, however, occupying himself with development duties on the new Ligier-Martini
F3 car. His deal with KTR comes with support from new personal sponsor, Jet-Seven.
"The decision to race with KTR has been much well thought out," Gommendy admitted, "In my opinion, KTR is going to be one of the two most competitive teams in the championship. They have enough experience to help me in my goal of winning the title."
Having surprised World Series onlookers by signing Gommendy ahead of the two Dutch drivers originally connected to his team, Mollekens has promised no more shocks.
“The second driver
will be Dutch,” the former racer insisted, "It is no secret that we are in talks with both van Lagen and Zwolsman, both have tested with us, and I expect to made an announcement later this week.”
"I am pleased to have signed Tristan, however, mainly because I know that we have a real title contender for the first time since 2002, when we ran Bas Leinders. I know that we will be racing at the front again."
