Fortec Motorsport has announced the signing of Spanish teenager Victor Garcia for the 2009 Cooper Tires British F3 International Series season.
The 18-year-old secured the drive following an impressive testing performance during the winter and will look to follow in the footsteps of countryman Jaime Alguersuari, who took the 2008 title in his debut season with Carlin.
"I used to race against Jaime in karts - and sometimes I used to beat him - so it would be fantastic to follow his example and to win in the UK,” Garcia said. “I don't have much experience of the circuits yet but I am looking forward to the challenge."
Senior race engineer Mick Kouros said he had been impressed by Garcia's testing pace and said he was confident the youngster would prove to be a championship challenger.
"He set fast times at all the circuits we visited and was quick to adapt to our car and the tyres,” he said. “Fortec is looking forward to working with Victor and to helping him challenge for championship victory.”
