Fortec Motorsport kicks off its 2023 ROKiT F4 British Championship certified by FIA campaign at Donington Park, Leicestershire this weekend (22-23 April).
The Daventry-based team returns to action in Britain’s FIA Formula 4 series boasting one of the strongest driver line-ups in the paddock, including returning stars and new talent.
After starring on two appearances towards the end of last season, James Higgins returns for a full-season campaign with the team. With the benefit of a full winter testing programme, the Brit is likely to be in the hunt for silverware on a regular basis.
Alongside him this weekend is Alpine Academy driver Aiden Neate. The 16-year-old is already twice a race winner at this level and returns for a title tilt in his second full season at this level. Neate has already showcased early promise ahead of the weekend, topping the opening practice session on Thursday.
Completing the trio, albeit not this weekend due to his age, is Mika Abrahams. The South African rising star will join the fray from Thruxton onwards, once he turns 15 years old, to bolster the ranks.
Qualifying kicks off the competitive action tomorrow (Saturday) at 11:45, with the opening race following later that afternoon at 16:40.
Sunday features two further races at 10:40 and 15:55, with live television coverage available in the UK on ITV4.
James Higgins (#18) said:
“I’m really looking forward to this weekend. Testing has been really positive, we’ve shown good, front-running pace, and we can definitely be in the mix for a competitive start to the season.
“It’s been good to have a proper winter testing programme with the team to really zone in on a few things with the team. With their support, we should be in for a good season.”
Aiden Neate (#57) said:
“For me, this season, the ambition is to challenge for the championship. I’ve got a lot of experience in this car, and in the series, now. Combine that with the team’s expertise, and it’s a partnership that should put us in the mix.
“Testing yesterday was positive, topping one of the two sessions and showing good pace. Hopefully we can convert that into a good result in qualifying, and then the weekend plays out well from there.”
Oliver Dutton, Team Principal said:
“I think this is one of the most exciting driver line-ups we’ve had in F4 for a few years now. We have two likely title contenders, plus an exciting rookie in Mika from Thruxton onwards, and all the ingredients as a team for a really strong season.”
