Mazepin, 17, finished the 2016 season 20th overall, having made the step up to European F3 from Formula Renault 2.0.

"I had a good first season in Formula 3," commented Mazepin. “Of course, it was a steep learning curve as it was only my second full season in car racing.

"I managed to show at certain points, particularly Spa, Paul Ricard and Hockenheim, where I had my first rookie podium, that I have the potential to make the step up next year to fight at the front. This is the target."

The Russian, who has podiums in Formula Renault 2.0 NEC and British F3, was runner-up to Lando Norris in the 2014 Karting World Championship, prior to his move to single-seaters.

He is the second driver named by Hitech for 2017, the team having confirmed the arrival of Prema driver Ralf Aron last week.

"Nikita had a typical rookie season in F3, showing some promise and also finding some tracks more difficult," reckoned team boss Olvier Oakes.

“He had some really strong races, particularly Spa and Hockenheim, where he showed he has the ability to be at the front in F3.

"We need to build on that and some consistency next season - if we do, then Nikita can be at the sharp end of the field throughout the year."

2017 European F3 line-up so far: