F4 Challenge Cup Winner Ericsson Returns to Fortec

Hampus Ericsson, brother of Formula 1 driver Marcus Ericsson, becomes only the fifth drivers to be confirmed for the 2018 F4 British Championship. They also become the second for Fortec Motorsports as they look to take over the void left by Carlin as the series number one team.

Having won the Ford F4 Challenge Cup last season, Ericsson will enter the season as one of the favourites for the title, also coming off the back of two overall podiums and a Brands Hatch final in which he even gave champion Jamie Caroline a run for his money.

Last year, Fortec guided Oliver York to two wins, having spent the first half of the season as an outside championship contender in what was only his first season. They were also instrumental in Ericsson’s rise amongst the ranks to eventually win the Ford F4 Challenge Cup in the final race.

“I am thrilled to be returning to the F4 British Championship after winning the Challenge Cup last season and can’t wait for the first round at Brands Hatch,” said Ericsson.

“I am excited to be back with Fortec after a successful 2017 season. Last year was a big learning curve for me. It was my first time in a single-seater and I had to become familiar with all the British tracks.

“I feel very comfortable with the team and after some great finishes last year I’m confident we can work together to achieve a top result. I am doing everything within my power to prepare myself both physically and mentally for a competitive 2018 season.”

“A massive thank you to my sponsor Team BAUHAUS for making this possible, and everyone who has invested in myself and my career so far.”

Fortec Motorsports team manager Oliver Dutton said “There’s no doubting that Hampus has raw speed and talent. He has been very competitive throughout his karting career and set the lap record at the World Junior Karting Finals in Bahrain. Hampus is maturing into a confident racing driver. He knows what it takes to be successful and is very passionate about the sport.”

Ericsson will join Lucca Allen, who was announced earlier this month. The fact he is only British F4’s fifth confirmed entry has left many fans concerned about the size of the grid, a fact Motorsport Radio recently commented on.