Chadwick F1-bound after being handed "life-changing opportunity"

Jamie Chadwick has hailed the "life-changing opportunity" she hopes will now fast track her into Formula 1.

Chadwick made history last year when she became the maiden winner of the all-female W Series.

Following the recent cancellation of this year's championship, the 22-year-old Briton appeared to be at a loose end.

But Chadwick will now compete in the prestigious Regional European Formula 3 series with powerful Italian-based team Prema.

Chadwick's place in the championship has come courtesy of financial backing from Australian entrepreneur David Dicker, who runs New Zealand-based Rodin cars.

Chadwick said: "I am absolutely elated to be teaming up with Prema Powerteam for the Formula Regional European Championship this year.

"With such an amazing calendar, what looks to be a very competitive grid, and of course the support of the Prema team, I really cannot wait to get back racing in August.

"I am incredibly grateful to Rodin Cars and David Dicker for this life-changing opportunity, and their support in the next chapter of my racing career. I’m so excited to start this journey with them and I hope we can enjoy mutual success together."

Chadwick's team-mate at Prema this season will be Arthur Leclerc, brother of Ferrari driver Charles, who also drove for Prema en route to F1.

Chadwick, who is also supported by Williams, could ultimately become the first female driver in F1 since Lella Lombardi in 1976.

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