Laurens Van Hoepen Ascends to FIA Formula 3 with ART Grand Prix for Upcoming Season

In a significant development for motorsport enthusiasts, ART Grand Prix has confirmed that Laurens Van Hoepen will be stepping up to FIA Formula 3 next season. This announcement marks a new chapter in the career of the 18-year-old Dutch driver, who has shown remarkable progress and skill in his journey through the ranks of motorsport.

Van Hoepen, a name now synonymous with potential and talent in the racing world, moves to F3 after two successful seasons in the Formula Regional European Championship by Alpine with ART. His journey in this championship culminated in a commendable 10th place finish in 2023, highlighted by two podium finishes at his home event in Zandvoort. These achievements not only demonstrate his skill but also his ability to rise to the occasion under pressure.

Before his foray into the world of single seaters, Van Hoepen had already made a name for himself in karting. His prowess was evident with his triumph in the IAME Euro Series title in the X30 Mini class in 2017. This early success laid the foundation for his transition to more competitive and challenging racing categories.

The Dutch driver's move to FIA Formula 3 with ART Grand Prix is fueled by his recent performances and his positive progression during the post-season testing. Notably, Van Hoepen achieved a top five finish on the final day of the Barcelona test, signaling his readiness for the higher demands of FIA Formula 3.

Expressing his enthusiasm for the upcoming season, Van Hoepen said, “I’m really happy to make the step up to FIA F3 with ART Grand Prix. This will be my third year working with the team and over the past two years, we have really gotten to know each other well, and we have shown that in the positive F3 tests. Next year will be exciting and I fully trust that ART Grand Prix and I can do a good job.”

Team Principal Sébastien Philippe echoed these sentiments, emphasizing Van Hoepen's valuable qualities and potential impact in his rookie F3 campaign. “Despite a difficult environment in 2023, Laurens has always been a fighter and helped the team to turn things around. During his first F3 test, he quickly found his feet and developed a good relationship with the engineers. His qualities as a driver and fighter will be invaluable in a complex championship that leaves nothing to chance,” said Philippe.

ART Grand Prix's faith in Van Hoepen is a testament to his resilience, adaptability, and relentless pursuit of excellence. As the motorsport community looks forward to the FIA Formula 3 season, all eyes will be on Laurens Van Hoepen and his journey with ART Grand Prix. His ascent in the motorsport hierarchy is not just a story of personal achievement but also an inspiration for aspiring drivers everywhere.