Photo: Joe Portlock/GP3 Series Media Service
Jake Hughes will return to the GP3 Series this year with ART Grand Prix.
Hughes previously raced in the series in 2016 for DAMS, claiming pole on his debut at Barcelona and going on to claim reverse-grid wins at Hockenheim and Abu Dhabi.
His Barcelona pole was the last time a non-ART driver came out on top in a GP3 qualifying session.
Last year he switched to European Formula 3 with Hitech, and came fifth in the standings with a victory at the Nurburgring.
His GP3 deal with ART is believed to be linked to his former Hitech team-mate Nikita Mazepin’s similar move.
?I’m very proud and excited to be joining a team as successful as ART Grand Prix for a crack at GP3,” said Hughes.
“The team?s performances in the series over the last few years especially, have been extremely impressive.
“So, when the opportunity came about to be able to be jump in one of their cars for 2018 it was impossible to say no.
“I tested for three days with everyone in Abu Dhabi and felt immediately confident in and out of the car.?
“The aim is clear when racing for a team like ART, so I cannot wait to get down to the workshop and get going!?
Team boss Sebastien Philippe, whose squad has also signed Callum Ilott for 2018, said:??ART Grand Prix has followed Jake’s progress for several years and he has continued to impress us.?
“Last year, he was the spearhead of Hitech in F3, with whom we have been collaborating with for several years, and we are happy to give him a second chance in GP3.?
“Jake is a great talent that only wants to express himself fully and ART Grand Prix can rely on him to help the team retain its titles.?