Russian racer Max Snegirev is to step up to the International class in the Cooper Tires British Formula 3 series in 2010, it is announced today. The 22-year-old London-based driver will appear at the wheel of a third Fortec Motorsport Dallara.

Snegirev gained a season's experience of British F3 in 2009, claiming a number of podium finishes in the National class.

Max will enjoy his first taste of a Mercedes-powered 2010-specification car at the Silverstone test sessions next week, the final practice ahead of the Easter weekend (3-5 Apr) opening rounds of the championship at Oulton Park.

Snegirev is the third runner declared by Fortec; he joins talented and rapid young Brits Oli Webb and Daniel McKenzie on the driving strength.

Fortec's senior race engineer Mick Kouros said: "We are looking forward to Max driving our car for the first time at Silverstone on 23 March. Max knows that he has missed several test days but is keen to start working with the team and his new team-mates. We will all be working hard to help bring Max up to speed with the International class car, and although he is starting behind all the rest we will be working on continually improving as the season develops."