Belgian driver Ulysse De Pauw will make his BRDC British F3 debut this season with the Douglas Motorsport team, and admits he can’t wait to get going at Oulton Park on Easter weekend.

The 17-year-old has been ramping up his preparations with a detailed pre-season testing campaign and he admits that things have been going according to plan so far.

“The pre-season tests are going quite well, I first drove the car at the media day at Donington and I am improving every time we drive,” he commented.

“The pace is beginning to look good and I feel very confident with the car. We had two great test days at Spa with great pace during both days and I can’t wait to race there for my ‘home race!’”

De Pauw graduates to British F3 from F4 in France, and believes the Tatuus-Cosworth car is a big step up.

“The car is amazing, the amount of downforce that you have is the biggest difference compared to the French F4 car, it took me a bit of time to really be confident with it in the fast corners but I am getting there. The major differences are the aero, engine and the brakes.”

He’s also delighted to be joining the Douglas Motorsport team for his first experience of racing on British soil.

“I am super happy to be in a competitive team ahead of this season. I have two good teammates to work with and I feel very well with everyone in the team.

“We all know that England is a passionate country of motorsport and I think I can learn a lot by working with a British team, the championship gives you the opportunity to race in a very fast car for a reasonable budget which is a crucial point in motorsport.”

De Pauw is also eagerly anticipating the variety of circuits on this year’s calendar, but has two venues in mind that he can't wait to race at.

“I’m obviously looking forward to racing at Spa as it is my home race and one of my favourite tracks. I think the races will be very good there because there are many overtaking possibilities. I am also looking forward to racing at Silverstone as it is a mythical venue and a Formula One track.”

Despite good pace in recent tests, the Belgian ace is keeping expectations in check ahead of the start of the season at Oulton Park on Easter weekend.

“I expect to progress during the whole season, I know the first race won’t be the easiest as I haven’t had loads of tests, but as a rookie in the category I expect to reach some podiums and a win would be the ultimate objective.”