Devon racing driver Josh Weber (Tiverton) has signed a deal with Formula Renault UK Championship with Michelin team Hill Speed Racing to contest the 2005 season – and the Hathersage outfit also expects its second driver to be confirmed by the end of the week.
Weber, who celebrates his 18th birthday next month, made his Formula Renault UK debut in the 2003 Winter Championship with Hill Speed. After signing with front-running team Manor Motorsport to contest the 2004 season, Weber ended the year 19th overall in the driver standings and fourth in the inaugural ‘Graduate Cup’.
The teenager now hopes, however, to put what he has learnt to good use and believes a return to Hill Speed Racing will help him get the best out of himself. Weber said: “It’s great to be back with Richard (Ollerenshaw – Hill Speed team boss) and the team again as the relationship I originally formed with them is very strong.
“Last year was challenging and I learnt a lot from my team and some of the other drivers, however I am confident returning to Hill Speed, where I had my first taste of Formula Renault UK, will bring the results we know we are capable of.”
Following some winter testing with Hill Speed in Albacete, Spain, last month, Weber has shown great promise ahead of the new season and hopes to become a regular face at the front of the field along with his Derbyshire-based team.
Speaking on the signing, a delighted Richard Ollerenshaw said: “Obviously we are very pleased to have Josh back in our team. His introduction to Formula Renault UK in 2003 proved he is a strong driver and is capable of learning quickly. Last year he continued to develop and I am sure 2005 will bring the success we know he is capable of.”
Hill Speed Racing is also hoping to run in the new-for-2005 Formula Renault BARC Championship and is actively seeking prospective drivers who wish to take part in the cost-effective series. Richard Ollerenshaw can be contacted on 07966 650400.
For all the latest Formula Renault UK Championship with Michelin news visit the official Renault Sport UK website www.renaultsport.co.uk built by Racecar
