Celis first to sign for 2016 F3.5 V8

Mexican racer Alfonso Celis Jr. will continue to drive for Adrian Valles' AVF team in the rebranded Formula 3.5 V8 series in 2016. Celis combined a season in GP3 with ART alongside a FR3.5 campaign for AVF this season.

"AVF has been like a family for me this season," said the 19-year-old Mexican. "I really merged well with the team, and the car has been one of the best I've driven in my whole career.

"As I'm set for my second year in the championship, staying with Adrian felt like a logical and natural choice, as he really helped me a lot growing up as a driver."

Celis started and ended his year setting fastest laps, but finished 16th in the drivers' standings having endured his share of troubles, including being left on the line at both Spa and the Red Bull Ring.

AVF team principal Adrian Valles added: "I'm delighted to have Alfonso with us again for the 2016 season. In addition to the fact that he is a great driver, he showed he is a phenomenal guy. He perfectly integrated with the team and everybody works with him really well.

"We are also proud to be the first team to sign a driver for the new Formula 3.5 V8 championship, a series where we hope to be among the leading contenders next year."

The next Formula 3.5 V8 test will take place at Aragon on Nov. 4-6.

Originally on Autosport.com