Rafael Villagomez has rejoined Van Amersfoort Racing for 2023 FIA F3 season.
Last season saw Villagomez join Van Amersfoort Racing (VAR) after HWA Racelab departured F3 at end of 2021, in a move which saw the 21 year-old finally score his first points finish in F3 after he finished ninth in the Sprint Race at Imola.
VAR rewarded him with an invitation to participate in their post-season F2 test in Abu Dhabi but ultimately opted for Juan Manuel Correa and Richard Verschoor to complete their second-tier line-up for this season.
Villagomez meanwhile has signed up to a second season with VAR in F3 which will mark his third consecutive season in the category.
Speaking about his decision to stay in F3, Villagomez said that he is “really excited” to remain with VAR after enjoying a positive 2022 campaign of development, despite just one top-ten finish in the season.
On his winter plans to prepare for the new season during which he will drive in Formula Regional Middle East Championship (FRMEC), Villagomez added: “I have used the winter period to fully prepare myself physically, and I am really excited to be already racing in January in FRMEC.
“It feels like this is the best approach to get fully ready for the season and I can’t wait for it to finally kick off again!”
VAR CEO, Rob Niessink added that it feels “great” to retain Villagomez as he praised the Mexican for being “very dedicated to his goals,” whilst being an “absolute pleasure” to have on the team.
Niessink added that Villagomez will bring continuity as he continued: “Having a driver in the team for multiple seasons has clear benefits. Due to the intense contact, you grow stronger as a team, which ultimately is key for performing well on track.
“Our crew is very committed to support Rafael in progressing both on- and off the circuit and all are fully dedicated to book strong results this season!”
Villagomez will partner rookie, Tommy Smith plus a yet unannounced third driver.
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