Carlin Team Statement

Carlin is extremely disappointed to announce that the FIA has rejected its application to field Nelson Piquet Jr in this weekend’s Formula 3 Pau Grand Prix.

Despite Piquet Jr meeting all entry requirements and the FIA initially announcing Piquet Jr’s participation in the event and accepting entry payment from Carlin, the team have been informed today that Piquet Jr will not be permitted to race.

The FIA has stated that they believe that the fielding of a highly credentialed and experienced driver would jeopardise its objectives for the FIA F3 European Championship as a developmental series. It is therefore with huge disappointment that Carlin must announce that Piquet Jr will not race this weekend.

Trevor Carlin commented, “I think it’s a huge loss for this weekend’s event that Nelson will not be allowed to race.  Having been directly involved in running Formula 3 teams for 30 years, I am more than aware of the importance Formula 3 has in developing young drivers.  Nelson’s one-off participation in the series this weekend would have been a great stimulus for the drivers around him and shone a positive light on the championship and drivers.  In no way was it meant to discredit the championship or it’s ethos.  We thank Nelson for his positive attitude and wish him the very best of luck for the remainder of his season.”