Photo: Jakob Ebrey Photography
Joseph Loake and JHR Developments willl aim for the British Formula 4 title this year after winning three races as a combination in 2021.
JHR signed Loake as the reigning BRSCC Fiesta Junior champion, and the teenager’s transition to single-seater resulted in sixth in the standings.
He then stuck with JHR for two rounds of F4 United Arab Emirates at the start of 2022 to learn the new Tatuus T-421 car that will be used in Britain this year, and his deal to stay with JHR for a second British F4 season is now confirmed.
“I’ll be going for the championship – that’s the main goal,” said Loake.
“JHR are going to be fully behind me, which is really nice, so I’ll be giving it my all and will see how we get on. We won’t know until round one exactly what the ultimate pace is like, so I’m just focusing on getting the most out of myself and the car that I have.
“With my experience in the series last year and racing in F4 UAE in Dubai, I have been heavily involved with helping the team to develop the new car. Everyone in the team is working in unison and I think we have done a really good job while making some breakthroughs which we hope will pay off.
“Working on the Neil Brown-spec engine which will be used in Britain should give us a bit of a head start going into the season. The new car is a lot different, but it really suits the way that I like to drive, so hopefully it will be a good year.”
He completes a three-car line-up alongside Georgi Dimitrov, who moves across from Arden, and Australian karting graduate Noah Lisle.
“We’re very happy that Joseph is able to race with us for a second year in the F4 British championship and first with the new Tatuus chassis,” said JHR’s team principal Steve Hunter.
“His insight and help with our understanding of the car in F4 UAE was very helpful and he’s also been assisting Neil Brown Engineering with development of the UK-spec engine.
“His opening weekend race win was no fluke last season and if things fall his way there is no reason why he cannot be fighting for race wins and be in the mix for the championship this year.”