Photo: Fotospeedy
Euroformula champion Noel Leon will not take a step up the single-seater ladder next year, and instead make a sideways move to FIA Formula 3 with Van Amersfoort Racing.
The 18-year-old Mexican claimed the 2023 Euroformula title with seven wins and five poles, and was crowned with a round to spare. He then made his F3 debut with VAR in the Macau Grand Prix, finishing in 19th place.
Leon was NACAM Formula 4 champion in 2020 and United States F4 champion a year later, but initially struggled when he relocated his career to Europe last year with the backing of Red Bull. He came 23rd in the Formula Regional European Championship with three points, and lost Red Bull’s support for 2023.
“Being part of Van Amersfoort Racing has been a joy so far,” said Leon. “We did the post-season tests and Macau together which was a positive experience and great preparation for the upcoming season. I cannot wait for the season to start.”
Formula Scout understands VAR is set to announce one of his team-mates for 2024 next week.
“We’re delighted to welcome Noel to our team for the upcoming FIA F3 season,” said VAR team principal Frits van Amersfoort. “Noel showcased himself as a talented and driven racer. His previous single-seater experience and determination will help him in preparing for a competitive 2024 season.”
Leon follows the path of 2022 Euroformula champion Oliver Goethe, who spent this year racing in FIA F3 and will do the same in 2024, while 2021 champion Cameron Das has not raced since then.
The 2020 champion Yifei Ye also failed to progress further up the single-seater ladder, but did establish a successful sportscar career and has just left Porsche’s roster of supported drivers ahead of an expected switch of allegiances to Ferrari.