Zhenrui ‘Newman’ Chi has completed MP Motorsport’s driver line-up for the 2027 FIA Formula Three season.
Chi’s graduation into F3 comes after he finished eighth in Formula Regional European Championship in 2026 with nine top-eight finishes, with a season-best finish of fourth on three separate occasions.
“I am truly delighted with my promotion to Formula 3, especially while doing so with MP Motorsport”, commented Chi on his step up to F3 as he continues with MP Motorsport after he drove for them this season.
“We have gelled really well in the FIA Formula Regional European Championship this season, so my confidence is high for a repeat.
“The team have done really well in F3 this year, certainly towards the end of the season, so it’s my goal to contribute to the team’s ultimate pace and have their outstanding form last well into next season.”
MP Motorsport Team Principal, Sander Dorsman is “very happy” that Aston Martin have again entrusted the team to develop Chi for a second consecutive season as he moves into F3.
“In FIA FREC this year, he has seldomly put a foot wrong, demonstrating his ability to be a consistent front-runner, which is absolutely what you need in a highly competitive environment such as FIA F3.”
Chi will partner Maciej Gladysz and Matteo De Palo and Dorsman is confident that the blend of experience and youth will stand the team well next season.
“With Maciej, Matteo and Newman, we have an exciting mix of experience and youthful energy that will hold us in good stead for 2027.”
Aston Martin’s Driver Academy Racing Director, Nuno Pinto is “very pleased” to see Chi stepping up with MP Motorsport, as he addressed the 17-year-old’s performance level which earned him a move into F3 on merit.
“He’s earned this opportunity through consistently delivering strong performances this season, demonstrating that he’s more than ready to take the next step in his career. We look forward to watching him build on this momentum in 2027.
“With F3 racing on F1 weekends, it will also bring Newman closer to Aston Martin Aramco and further his ongoing integration with the Formula One team.”
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