McLaren Formula 1 reserve driver Lando Norris will compete in Formula 2 next season, driving for the returning Carlin team.
Norris, who won the European Formula 3 championship with the Carlin squad this season, will partner current F2 driver Sergio Sette Camara at the team.
Having been associated with Carlin ever since claiming the 2015 MSA Formula Championship title, Norris’ F2 commitments will be a continuation of a successful partnership.
“2018 will be my fourth year racing with Carlin. Trevor [Carlin] heads up a great operation and I feel part of the ‘family’ there,” Norris stated. “It’s a friendly environment and one in which I feel very comfortable in.
“Next year will be a steep learning curve in terms of getting used to the increased power, the Pirelli tyres and mandatory pit stops but I feel I’m in the best environment possible to get to grips with all those elements.”
Norris has made his F2 debut this weekend in a bid to gain experience, driving in a one-off appearance for Campos in this season’s final round in Abu Dhabi.
Sette Camara – confirmed as Norris’ Carlin team-mate for 2018 – has instead completed a full F2 programme in 2018, driving for MP Motorsport. The Brazilian claimed his maiden victory in the Belgian sprint race at Spa-Francorchamps.
“To be signing with Carlin is the best,” said Sette Camara. “They are a top team and I know they will be up there. I’m looking forward to spending the season with the team in such a big championship.”
Carlin was previously involved at F2 level, competing in the GP2 series from 2011 until 2016. The outfit has been lured back into the category courtesy of the introduction of a new car in 2018.
