As one of the first drivers to sign on for the 2020 FIA Formula 3 Championship season, Calan Williams’ climb up the FIA’s global pathway seems to be heading in the right direction.
The West Australian has spent the previous two years racing overseas, which has included stints in the Euroformula Open Championship and Toyota Racing Series where he enjoyed a number of top 10 results.
Now signed on with Swiss based team Jenzer Motorsport after a positive testing period last year in Valencia, Williams was excited to begin a new chapter in his career on what will be the biggest stage of his life so far.
“I am definitely excited but also getting a little nervous, although I think that’s normal in any sport - especially when it comes to doing a new event,” Williams said.
“I am more excited as opposed to scared though because there is going to be a lot of differences compared to what I have been used to over the past few years. I suppose it will be the same for anyone who is running in this year’s championship
for the first time.
“I feel it’s going to be a race of who can be the quickest to adapt to both the car and the conditions so I am really looking forward to it.
“There are also lot of aspects to the championship itself which will be new to me like the DRS and virtual safety car. The technology seems a lot more advanced in this championship compared to anything I have ever done before.”
During the category’s three-day test in October, Williams was one of 45 drivers looking to prove themselves in the 30 cars available and the Swiss team was clearly impressed with him – having already been in dialogue with teenager for much
of last year.
With the 19-year-old also impressed with Jenzer’s structure, professionalism and attitude, it’s a relationship of mutual respect and understanding as the two parties look to make an impact in this year’s Formula 3 Championship.
For Williams though, one of three Australians already confirmed to be competing in the championship, he believes he is ready to take the next step in his career and is hopeful of securing some strong results.
“Last year, my goals were all on improving some of my own skills. Now for this year, I will certainly be trying to perform really well and get some top results for the team,” Williams added.
“I would like to win something. It will be the aim every race, but it would be nice to get one on the board. As for the championship itself, I am hoping to earn some super license points.
“It would be brilliant to have a good year. To finish in the top end of the field, as well as get some podiums and win some races would be an absolute dream.
“I’m going to be up against such a tough field though. I would be kidding myself if I thought it was going to be easy. I have to have my goals set high or else I’d comfortable with mediocre results and that wouldn’t help me with
a strong year.”
Williams, Jack Doohan, Oscar Piastri will have the chance for one final testing period early next month, before the season begins on 21-22 March at the Bahrain Grand Prix.