F1 dynasties continue in British series.

The BRDC British F3 Championship is maintaining its strong links with Formula One thanks to members of its 2002 driver intake.

Already recognised as the best training ground for grand prix racers, the championship will boast members of two F1-related families this year.

Stefano Fabi is the 17-year old son of former Formula One driver Teo Fabi, who drove for Brabham, Toleman and Benetton in his career. Fabi Jr has already won the European International 100cc karting title two years ago and the Italian Formula A karting championship in 2001 and, after racing in the Italian Formula Renault Winter Trophy, is all set for a new challenge with more powerful machinery on all new circuits.

The Italian will race for Team Avanti, run by respected engineer Nigel Clyde, alongside Scholarship graduate Matt Gilmore.

"The best way to make it in motor racing is to move to England," he said, "I am looking forward to furthering my career in the UK."

Richard Antinucci is the second of this year';s crop of newcomers with a Formula One relative, as he is the nephew of 1980s grand prix driver Eddie Cheever. The American raced in the British Formula Renault Championship in 2001, finishing as runner-up to British driver Carl Breeze.

Driving for double-champions Manor Motorsport, with whom he made his challenge for the FRenault title, Antinucci looks set to be a frontrunner in the championship. However, the Italo-American will again have to square up to FRenault nemesis Breeze, who also graduates to F3 with his 2001 team, Motaworld Racing, which debuts in F3 this year.

The BRDC British F3 Championship kicks off at Brands Hatch on 1 April.