The opening round of the Formula 3 Euro Series started in Hockenheim, Germany, this weekend, where Jon showed astonishing pace on his maiden outing for ART Grand Prix.



Qualifying took place early on Saturday morning, which was one day later than planned, owing to the heavy rain that led to the cancellation of qualifying the previous day.

They were rivals in European karting in 2006, and again in Euro Formula Renault in 2007; 2008 showed no difference, as Jon and his fellow rookie team-mate at ART, Jules Bianchi, fought hard for a grid slot on the first three rows for round 1. With only 0.002s between them, Jon’s time of 1:46.969s was quick enough for a very promising grid six starting position just behind Bianchi, although his sector times at one stage showed the potential for a front row berth! Nevertheless Jon was ecstatic to be sixth fastest and was eager for the race to start.

He made a good start and rose to fifth place, but disaster struck when contact between Jon and the Signature-Plus driver Jean-Karl Vernay, resulted in Jon’s care being launched off the rear wheel of Vernay’s car, with the ART car barrel-rolling and landing upside down on the roll bar. Thankfully Jon did not appear to have any apparent injuries, but he was taken to hospital for a precautionary check-up.

Unfortunately Jon had received a heavy blow on his leg, so the decision was made to withdraw from round two tomorrow (Sunday), to allow Jon time to recuperate from the accident, and to allow the car to be re-built back at the factory.

A further report from Jon will follow shortly.