FFord champion Boyd joins T-Sport

Reigning British Formula Ford champion Wayne Boyd will graduate to the British Formula 3 International Championship this season after agreeing terms to join an expanded T-Sport line-up.

Boyd was a regular participant during post-season testing, the 18-year-old enjoying trials with a number of teams, including T-Sport.

However, despite attracting interest from a number of parties, Boyd has chosen to put pen to paper with T-Sport following their deal to use Volkswagen engines during the 2009 season.

"All the winter testing in F3 has been absolutely brilliant," Boyd, who will continue to be backed by DHL, said. "I've been flattered by the number of people who have been interested in me driving for their team and I thank them all. Everyone we drove with was fabulous but Russell [Eacot] and Skelly's [Alan Woodhead] enthusiasm and eagerness to help me learn really shone through.

"The overall package they were offering and their new deal with VW won the day for me. They are racers and absolutely focused on winning, which suits me fine! I've got so much to learn in 2009 and I look forward to the future with excitement. I can't wait to get back on the track and try the new VW engine."

Boyd will join Formula Renault front runner Adriano Buzaid in what will be T-Sport's first season of running two Championship class machines. For team boss Eacott, the acquisition of Boyd is an exciting coup for him.

"I'm just really happy that Wayne is with us. We've tested him and know his capabilities and his potential. Alan 'Skelly' Woodhead, the team's chief engineer, is also really looking forward to working with Wayne as are the rest of the guys."

Volkswagen's Kris Nissen, who will supply engines to multiple champions Carlin Motorsport in 2009, was also pleased to see Boyd choose T-Sport over their Mercedes-powered rivals.

"We are delighted to have Wayne Boyd in the Volkswagen line-up for the British Formula 3 Championship. With good races in 2008 and positive winter testing Wayne justified the cockpit in the T-Sport team. We are sure the Volkswagen Formula 3 engine can give a strong boost to this young talent."

T-Sport emerged as title contenders in 2008 running a single Mugen-Honda powered car for Sergio Perez. The Mexican driver won four times on the way to fourth in the standings.