Oscar Piastri has received a major boost ahead of his 2020 FIA Formula 3 campaign with Australian Formula 1 legend Mark Webber supporting the teenager in the international category.

 

Signing a contract with Webber’s Jam Sports Management, Piastri will have the nine-time Grand Prix winner guiding him through the season both on and off the track, as well as representing him in discussions with teams and manufacturers.

 

Webber’s wife Ann and respected sports and corporate CEO Jason Allen will also join the cause with both to focus on Piastri’s commercial opportunities.

 

The new partnership comes off the back of 18-year-old’s brilliant season in the 2019 Formula Renault Eurocup, where he became the first Australian to win the series after picking up seven wins, 11 podiums and five poles.

 

“What Oscar managed to do last year in Formula Renault was pretty special, how he took control of the championship and closed the title out,” Webber said.

 

“Oscar is an impressive young man. I’ve enjoyed watching him continue his education and do the normal things kids his age do while dovetailing it with his racing – the level of self-discipline and dedication he has shown is admirable.

 

“He’s got that white line fever when he puts his helmet on and turns into a different character, which is sensational.”

 

Webber was also key in securing Piastri’s new position with the Renault Sport Academy, a program that develops young talent and helps them progress through the ranks. The young star was thrilled to have the Webbers’ support for the upcoming season.

 

“I’m excited to start working with Mark and Ann. I think everyone in Australia knows who Mark Webber is and he’s a pretty big name to have on my side,” Piastri said.

 

“Mark’s been through Formula 1, LMP1, and other categories through the years, so he has the experience that I’m sure if I have any issues, he will be able to steer me in the right direction or to the right people in the paddock.

 

“It doesn’t change how I go racing; my goals are still the same; it’s just that I’ve got outstanding people in my corner now.”

 

Piastri will have his first outing with Prema Racing team during March’s official testing before the nine-round FIA Formula 3 season begins at the Bahrain Grand Prix on 20-22 March.