Mazepin, who has spent the last two years in European Formula 3, was expected to join the F1 feeder series with ART, the team he spent all three days of the Abu Dhabi post-season test with.

The 18-year-old Russian was 20th and 10th in his two F3 campaigns, both with Hitech, collecting three podiums and 118 points.

He has also been affiliated with F1 team Force India, as he drove for the team in tests at Silverstone, Hungaroring and Abu Dhabi this year.

Mazepin is the second driver to be officially announced to race in GP3 next year, joining Ferrari junior and future ART teammate Callum Ilott.

"I am really happy to make the step up to GP3 with ART for 2018," said Mazepin.

"I have enjoyed my last two seasons in Formula 3 where I have improved a lot as a driver and the second part of this year was very positive.

"The recent GP3 test with ART in Abu Dhabi went really well and I immediately felt comfortable and trusted in the ART Team.

"I am really looking forward to seeing what we can achieve together in 2018."

ART team manager Sebastien Philippe emphasised the collaboration between his team and Mazepin's old squad Hitech, saying: "Giving Nikita a steering wheel in the GP3 Series is the logical continuation of our partnership, which started on an excellent basis in Abu Dhabi.

"In addition, ART Grand Prix has had a good relationship with Hitech for several years, and this collaboration with Nikita is the culmination of the work they carried out together.

"Nikita has given us a glimpse of his personal nature and his qualities as a racing driver and I am sure he can be an integral part in our fight for an 8th team title."

Mazepin's 2017 F3 teammate Jake Hughes is also expected to join ART next year, the Briton also having spent the full Abu Dhabi post-season test with the French outfit.

2018 GP3 line-up so far: