The German Formula 3 is to herald a new era. After two years of using the single-brand Volkswagen Power Engine with the push-to-pass system the fastest German single-seater series will now allow all current standard Formula 3 power units. This marks the next big step into the future for the Formula 3 Association as the foundation of the FIA Formula 3 European Championship. The ATS Formula 3 Cup has a good international standing, with some of the races of the 2013 season boasting a grid of more than twenty drivers from ten countries. Contesting the Cup ranking under the exact same conditions, the drivers battled for points using the single-brand Volkswagen Power Engine. The teams and the Formula 3 Association had agreed on that solution for the 2012 season. Two years later, those responsible intend to react to the latest changes proactively, in order to enable the overall ATS Formula 3 Cup package to support future developments and requirements.
Important signal
All teams and drivers contesting the ATS Formula 3 Cup will be able to use a conventional Formula 3 power unit with a 26mm air restrictor from now on. In addition to the Volkswagen, Mercedes and Nissan standard engines, this applies to the OPC Challenge. “After two successful years with a revolutionary concept, the Volkswagen Power Engine, we are reacting to the big changes in sports policies,” explains Jost Capito, Volkswagen Motorsport Director. “As the foundation of the FIA Formula 3 European Championship we want to give a clear signal, and we also consider it essential to make the step towards FIA conformity now.” This decision was made following constructive talks with Volkswagen and the Formula 3 Association. “Our goal must stay the same: offering cost-effective Formula 3 sports in order to attract drivers and teams from all over the world,” says Bertram Schäfer, Chairman of the Formula 3 Association. “We are extremely pleased to have adopted this very promising approach for the championship.” In addition to finalising the racing calender, this is the second important element that has already been decided for the 2014 season of the ATS Formula 3 Cup.
Calender of the 2014 ATS Formula 3 Cup in the support programme of the ADAC GT Masters:
25 – 27 April 2014: etropolis Motorsport Arena Oschersleben (DEU)
09 – 11 May 2014: Circuit Zandvoort (NLD)
23 – 25 May 2014: Red Bull Ring (AUT)
06 – 08 June 2014: Lausitzring* (DEU)
08 – 10 August 2014: Slovakia Ring (SVK)
29 – 31 August 2014: Nürburgring (DEU)
19 – 21 September 2014: Sachsenring (DEU)
03 – 05 October 2014: Hockenheimring (DEU)
* subject to circuit approval by FIA/DMSB