Formula Pilota China champion joins the F2 field at Silverstone
Swiss racer Mathéo Tuscher will take his place on the 2012 Formula Two grid this weekend at Silverstone, stepping up to the series after securing last year's Formula Pilota China title.
The teenager has quickly established himself as one of his country's rising stars, winning his first karting championship in 2006 and enjoying four more years of success at national karting level.
In 2011, he made the step up to single seaters with the Formula Pilot China series, where he took the title on his debut season by securing an impressive eight wins, nine podiums and four pole positions.
Last year he sampled the Williams designed F2 car during winter testing in Barcelona where he finished 10th overall on his first outing having topped the third session. More recently he finished an excellent fifth quickest during the official pre-season test at Silverstone, ending just a fraction off the more experienced front runners.
Tuscher said: "I'm very excited to embark on the 2012 F2 championship. It's an unbelievable opportunity for me and I am very thankful to my sponsors, parents and team for their support and guidance. Last year I was racing in Asia, wining the Formula Pilota championship, this year I am thrilled to discover the European circuits. F2 offers a unique challenge combining six grand prix circuits with a fantastic car equipped with an overboost facility, which I love, and a level playing field for all drivers. My aim this season will be to improve my skills, and win the best rookie award."
Jonathan Palmer, Formula Two Chief Executive, added: "I watched Mathéo during both the winter test sessions and last month's Silverstone test and was instantly impressed at how quick he was for someone so young, and for his first time in the Williams F2 car. Having raced predominately in Asia in less powerful single seaters, F2 provides him with the perfect platform in which to develop his career on a level - and very competitive - playing field whilst learning some of Europe's top circuits and I have no doubt he'll prove just what a talent he is."
