News

Webb Continues Strong Season Start at Silverstone

Manchester-based racing driver, Oliver Webb (19) continued his remarkable start to the season with two further second place finishes at Silverstone in the Cooper Tires British F3 International Series. This double podium added to the brace he achieved at his home circuit of Oulton Park, showing just how well the ex-Formula Renault driver has taken to Formula 3.

Webb had gone to Silverstone on the back foot after finding his running time on the brand new Arena circuit limited by mechanical problems during the previous week’s testing session. Undeterred by this setback, Webb put in a storming qualifying performance, claiming second slot on the grid for two of the races.

Race one saw Webb head-to-head once again with long-time Formula Renault rival, James Calado, who was on pole. Webb got a good start, but dropped off Calado early on with the Carlin driver edging away. Then as the race developed, the talented MSA Elite driver started to come back at Calado, harassing him lap after lap. A mistake allowed Webb to get close, but despite his best efforts he couldn’t quite push past a determined Calado.

Race two was hugely wet from the start and reversed grid meant that Webb started 7^th with Calado alongside him in 8^th. Early in the race Webb found himself catapulted off as Calado collided with the rear of his car, a move for which the he later apologised.

Race two saw Webb get a reasonable start, but behind him Will Buller hooked his car up perfectly and overhauled Webb before the first corner. Webb, never one to avoid a challenge, got straight on with the task ahead and was back in his rightful place by lap 3. From there Webb was able to sit on the gearbox of Calado once more, and restart their battles from race one. A safety car brought the pair head-to-head for the restart and another tough but fair battle commenced. Despite being alongside the Carlin driver twice, Fortec driver Webb couldn’t quite make a move count.