Fortec Motorsport’s Johnathan Hoggard was the fastest driver at the Donington Park media day test back in March, and the young Brit is raring to go ahead of his debut season in BRDC British F3.

The 18-year-old ended the day over three-tenths clear of teammate Manuel Maldonado, and has enjoyed a positive pre-season campaign leading up to Oulton Park on Easter weekend.

“Pre-season testing has gone really well, we had some areas where we needed to improve at some tracks however we are confident that we can make those changes to be on the pace,” he commented. “It’s just now about having full focus on the first round at Oulton Park to make sure we are competing at the front.”

The step-up to British F3 from F4 level is a big one, but Hoggard believes his style is better matched to the Tatuus Cosworth British F3 car.

“I think that my driving style is better suited to downforce, which going from F4 to F3 has increased a lot. It took me about a day to get to grips with the Tatuus British F3 car and then it was just about working with Fortec to iron out small parts. All of which can make a huge difference around a lap.”

Hoggard will also be racing against several familiar faces, as he continues his battles with Kiern Jewiss and Ayrton Simmons, who both competed against him in F4 last year.

“There are many drivers coming up from British F4 to BRDC British F3 from last year, and I would say that my main competition could come from those drivers moving up as it was very hard fought last year. However I can’t discount the other drivers who have looked strong in pre-season testing.”

With eight wins in British F4 last year, more than any of his rivals, and with many of those coming in the second half of the season, Hoggard is aiming to carry that momentum over to the start of this season, something he feels is key to building a title campaign.

“As well as many other drivers, my main targets are to get podiums, win races and in the long-run to win the championship. However I think the key to this is a strong start and then to keep consistent throughout the season.

“Fortec has a strong car, but we will constantly be striving to make further progress as test days and race weekends go on.”