Carlin’s Swedish signing Lucas Petersson admits he’s expecting strong results in his first season of BRDC British F3, as he makes the move from F4 in the United Arab Emirates to European competition.

The 17-year-old won two races on his way to fourth place in F4 UAE last season, and has adapted well to the step-up to British F3 during pre-season, setting the seventh fastest time in a recent group test at Spa.

“I’m super pleased to be racing in BRDC British F3 this year,” he enthused. “There is a big challenge to come from learning new tracks.”

Petersson has yet to race on any of the British tracks, having mostly competed in the Middle East over the past three seasons. He believes the UK venues pose interesting challenges compared to those in the UAE.

“After racing at Yas Marina and the Dubai Autodrome, it is safe to say that the tracks here in the UK are a lot more challenging. They have a lot more bumps, hills and tough corners which you don’t find in the UAE.”

Despite the steep learning curve, the Swedish driver, who will race with legendary F1 star’s Ronnie Peterson’s helmet design this year, is hoping for strong results.

“I feel that this year the level of competition is as high or even higher than last year, so I don’t expect any of the top positions to come easy. Nonetheless, I am with a great team and am expecting great results.”