Rising single-seater star Gary Thompson heads to Fuji International Speedway for rounds 3, 4 and 5 of the prestigious Japanese F3 Championship this weekend in confident mood after a recent strong performance in testing at the same circuit.

The 19-year-old Dubliner, who is currently ranked as Ireland’s top racing driver on the Castrol Edge Rankings, finished second at the group test two weeks ago in his SGC by KCMG-run Dallara at the 4.563-kilometre circuit in the foothills of Mount Fuji.

Having scored a podium in the season opener at Suzuka last month Thompson, who enjoys support from Aviation Display and Cebu Pacific Air, is hoping for a repeat performance in the three races at Fuji and is also eyeing a first victory in the highly-competitive National Class.

Thompson heads to what will be the first of two back-to-back race meetings at Fuji, the second taking place on 16-17 July, lying fourth in the championship standings after his Suzuka results and determined to climb higher in the table.

Gary Thompson: “Our race pace in testing at Fuji recently was particularly strong and although we’ve got some one-lap speed to find for qualifying, we were still second quickest. Also, this weekend’s triple-header will see one short race and two longer events, which should suit us. I think we’re looking good and I’m feeling very confident.

“Fuji is a lot different from Suzuka. It’s a good track and, while it’s not as challenging for the drivers, there are definitely more overtaking opportunities which should make for good racing. We’ve made a few changes to the car, but tweaks and refinements rather than anything major, particularly as the test went so well.

“Having finished second at Suzuka in the last round, I’d really like to get a win this weekend. The main target is to be on the podium in all three races to score good points for the championship, but honestly I’d like at least one victory!”