Norris to Carlin for MSA Formula

Carlin will run Formula Kart Stars ‘Old Boy’ and Karting World Champion Lando Norris in the 2015 MSA Formula. The British team, which has several titles to its name, will run three drivers in the new championship which is based on the FIA F4 model. 15 year-old Norris will be one of the youngest in the field and makes the step up to single seater racing from a glittering career in karting.

Norris completed a busy 2014 season, clinching the CIK FIA KF World Championship in France earlier this year. The British racer completed a stunning season to make history as the youngest karting World Championship winner against karters with considerably more experience. Norris also completed his first season in cars, racing in the Ginetta Junior Championship, taking four race wins and eight podiums on his way to third overall and the honours for top rookie.

Norris makes the next step in his career – into single seater racing – with Carlin a team that is no stranger to young drivers making their way up the motorsport ladder. Norris is the first driver to be announced in what will be a three car team for Carlin in the inaugural season of MSA Formula.

Based on the FIA F4 model, Norris will race a FIA homologated carbon monocoque, powered by a Ford EcoBoost 1.6 litre engine providing 160PS. Drivers will take part in 30 races across 10 race meetings supporting the ever popular British Touring Car Championship.

Speaking about his 2015 race programme, Norris said, “I’m really excited to be driving with Carlin next year. They are a great team with a brilliant history and I can’t wait to get going. You only have to look at the list of names they have helped through the years – such as Sebastian Vettel and Daniel Ricciardo – to know you are in good hands with a chance to progress to the top.”

Trevor Carlin said, “Lando is an amazing young talent and has huge potential. We’re delighted to have him in the team and look forward to helping him reach his goals next season. It’s a testament to the MSA in making the championship eligible to 15 year-olds that we’re able to keep talent like Lando in the UK at the start of his single seater career.”