For the last 50 years, the road to Formula One has usually led through one form or another of Formula 3. Founded in England just after the Second World War, F3 began as an inexpensive way to enter open-wheel racing. From tiny, motorcycle-engined carts of the ’50s to the Kevlar-monocoqued missiles of today, F3 has always provided fierce competition and a potential stepping stone to stardom. Drivers such as Clay Regazzoni, Ronnie Peterson, Trevor Taylor and Ayrton Senna all cut their teeth in F3 machines before moving to F1.
Created by a long-time follower of the formula, this month’s web site provides an amazing amount of information on the history of F3. In addition to an era-by-era account of the various F3 championships, this site also includes discussion of other entry-level formula car categories, such as Formula Junior.
Interspersed throughout the historical accounts are numerous tables highlighting the champions from the British, Italian and French series, as well as discussion of the numerous manufacturers who have competed over the years, including Cooper, Chevron, Lotus, Ralt and Techno. What this site may lack in design sophistication is more than made up for in solid history and plentiful information.
