Multiple title-winners DAMS are set to open a new chapter in their glorious history by entering the highly competitive GP3 Series in 2016. Having successfully contested Formula 1’s official feeder category – the GP2 Series – since its inaugural season in 2005, the French squad’s latest venture builds on a balanced initiative that combines sporting interests and manageable logistics.
Launched in 2010, the GP3 Series is firmly established as an important training ground for motorsport’s rising stars and kicks off most grand prix weekends. As per championship regulations, DAMS will enter three single-seaters, whose technical specifications – a new-for-2016 Dallara chassis, 3.4-litre 400bhp V6 Mecachrome engine and Pirelli tyres – make the junior category a useful step on the motor racing ladder.
Indeed, reigning GP3 Series champion Alex Lynn has gone on to claim two wins with DAMS in his first GP2 Series season, whilst also acting as an official Formula 1 development driver for Williams. Lynn’s success bodes well for the Le Mans-based outfit, whose GP3 Series programme will allow them to train even more talented youngsters in the long term. As well as providing competitive racing, the championship is also practical in terms of logistics and financial costs, which are both highly important considerations in the motorsport industry today.
DAMS’ foray into the GP3 Series means that their Formula Renault 3.5 Series programme will stop at the end of this year. Having claimed so many wins in the category it was a tough decision to make, but ultimately a necessary one for the company’s continued development.
Looking ahead to the GP3 Series, DAMS are determined to build on the success they have earned in other championships since the team’s inception in 1988.
Jean-Paul Driot: “I’m delighted to announce DAMS’ GP3 Series campaign; the project will certainly add another string to our bow. We’re familiar with the category, but fielding a brand new car and very young drivers naturally means starting from scratch, so we need to remain level-headed. Nevertheless, DAMS is ready to draw on its vast experience and meet the challenge head-on, so we have high hopes going into the championship.
Finally, I’d like to thank Renault and World Series’ organisers for the four seasons we’ve raced in Formula Renault 3.5. We’ve experienced some truly unforgettable moments, especially during our 2013 and 2014 title-winning campaigns, so those memories will always hold a special place in DAMS’ history.”
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