Monger takes spectacular podium on F3 debut

Billy Monger took a sensational third place in Saturday's BRDC British F3 Championship opener at Oulton Park. It was his first competitive outing since a crash in a British F4 event last year which led to Monger requiring both legs to be partially amputated.

Driving a car specially adapted, with a throttle on its steering wheel, Monger had qualified fifth for the race and benefitted from early contact to jump into third position, which he held onto to the chequered flag.

The 18-year-old does not have a deal for the entire F3 campaign, but his spectacular comeback to racing has caught the attention of the motorsport world yet again.

His Carlin team were permitted to run a fourth car owing to the unique circumstances and Monger's participation had only been confirmed in the week leading up to race day.

After his near-fatal crash at Donington Park last April, luminaries from across the motorsport world came together to raise funds and awareness of Monger's case.

Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton has been a close ally and listed Monger among his inspirations heading into the 2018 season.

Linus Lundqvist won the race, with Nicolai Kjaergaard second, but the biggest cheer was saved for Monger when he stepped onto the podium.

"It's a bit surreal but an awesome feeling even to be back," he said.

P3 Baby! Huge thanks to @CarlinRacing and a special mention for @Chilychilton for helping me make this possible! ???? #BillyWhizz pic.twitter.com/HAciAQ8WaL — billywhizz (@BillyMonger) March 31, 2018

"If you had told me that I'd have been on the podium first race of the year, I would probably have said you were lying to me.

"To get out there and prove I'm competitive is more than I could have ever have asked for.

"The first people I've got to thank are all the boys at Carlin for getting me back behind the wheel.

"Especially Grahame 'Chily' Chilton, everyone who has supported me, people like Jonathan Palmer, family and friends and everyone that supported me after my accident, without that support I wouldn't have been out on the grid today, so it's great to be back."

Congrats Billy ! Never give up has never been so true ????
Wishing you all the best for the future races and the season https://t.co/N5Lco8WFWv — Romain Grosjean (@RGrosjean) March 31, 2018

What an inspiration you are!!!! #NeverGiveUp https://t.co/vuW7rUr0BB — Sergio Pérez (@SChecoPerez) April 1, 2018

BRAVO!! https://t.co/nJrZ8grELZ — Carlos Sainz (@Carlossainz55) March 31, 2018

Amazing dedication, commitment, what a guy!!! Respect & congrats @BillyMonger ???????????????????????? https://t.co/2muN9RLyZ2 — Pierre Gasly ???????? (@PierreGASLY) March 31, 2018