Monger set for 2018 single-seater return in British F3

Billy Monger says a move into British F3 with Carlin looks “promising”, as the double amputee targets a sensational full-time return to single-seater racing in 2018.

The 18-year-old suffered amputations to both of his legs following a horrific British F4 crash at Donington Park last April, but has been determined to return to racing and ideally single-seaters ever since.

Monger tested in Fun Cup machinery last July to get his race licence back and recently completed extensive testing in Carlin’s simulator, having successfully overturned a rule that prevented disabled drivers from competing in international single-seaters with help from the FIA and the Motor Sports Association.

He has since been undertaking a testing programme with Carlin in British F3 machinery and completed his first track test at Oulton Park last week. He took part in another test with the British single-seater outfit at Brands Hatch on Wednesday. 

“We’re still looking for partners and stuff like that to get the funding up and I’d like to think we’ll be able to get that sorted,” Monger said. 

“The other thing is just getting used to the controls, and if I race I want to be competitive. So far it’s been looking promising, we’ve still got more testing to do and I’ll be learning something new with each lap I do.

“It’s a good championship to be in, ideally from F4 our step would have been the British F3 series. I looked at it and thought it was a competitive championship and it’s a good stepping stone if I want to move up to GT’s or higher up in single seaters.”

Back in the car! Ready to rock’n’roll @CarlinRacing #BillyWhizz @wolturnus @DraftWheelchair pic.twitter.com/Uj6OMlohrJ

— billywhizz (@BillyMonger) February 14, 2018

Carlin’s British F3 car has been specially adapted with paddles added to the steering wheel for throttle control and changing gears, as Monger evaluates a potential move into the championship for the 2018 season. 

“It’s been a challenge and something I’m not used to,” he added. “I’ve been driving a certain way for 12 years and then someone tells you to drive a different way, and it was a bit of an obstacle at first, but I’m getting used to it and it’s becoming more natural with every lap I do.

“It’s been a long journey, sitting on the side lines as a race driver at a race circuit and watching races and sorting out other things takes its toll on you. You just want to be out there on track doing what you love, but we got there in the end and now we’re testing we’re reaping the rewards of the hard work we have done over the winter."

Unbelievable feeling to be back in a single seater over the past couple of weeks. Some decent laps in the bank! Sights now firmly set on achieving a drive in @BRDCBritishF3 this season @CarlinRacing pic.twitter.com/e2pDoku87k

— billywhizz (@BillyMonger) February 15, 2018