For 19-year-old Mawson, this will be his third year in entry-level single-seater racing, the Aussie having started in French F4 in 2014, finishing fourth in his debut season.

He moved to the German ADAC F4 series last year and challenged for the title, eventually finishing third with five wins to his name.

"It is obvious: I have some unfinished business in Germany," Mawson stated.

"We were pretty close last year, but this season I have only one goal: winning the title in ADAC F4.

"Van Amersfoort Racing spectacularly improved their facilities over the winter, so I am glad to be part of the VAR family again."

Mawson is the second driver to be confirmed by VAR as he joins fellow sophomore Moritz Muller-Crepon.

The Aussie is now likely to be considered the main pre-season favourite in the category, with that status having arguably belonged to former teammate Mick Schumacher prior to Mawson's announcement.

"It is a definite plus to have Joey in our squad again," said Frits van Amersfoort. "His determination to succeed in racing is a natural fit with the approach we apply at Van Amersfoort Racing.

"It is effective, too, because we are able to continue where Joey and our team left off last season."