F3: Dallara's 2017 update makes race debut

The new front wing that forms part of the update kit for Dallara's current Formula 3 design has made its race debut.

The wing was tested before the penultimate round of the Euroformula Open series last weekend at Jerez, and was immediately adopted for use by all competitors during the event.

With the existing Dallara F312 model competing through to the end of 2019, the new aerodynamic package for next season includes the front wing, changes to the diffuser and the upper part of the rear wing.

A statement from the series said that the new front wing offered a speed advantage of 0.4 to 0.5 seconds per lap, with improvements in "aerodynamic performance, handling and driveability."

Dallara F3 project leader Jos Claes said: "We thank the Euroformula for giving us the first opportunity to test and benchmark the new front wing, which is only one element of the evolution package for 2017.

"We are extremely happy about the first response from the track, as it exceeded our expectations. We also appreciate the positive comments from the teams, who value a lot the cost-efficiency of this improvement."

The update kit will be accompanied by a ban on aero development and windtunnel testing in the F3 European Championship.

The Euroformula title was clinched at Jerez, with one round remaining at Barcelona, by 18-year-old Campos Racing-run Italian Leonardo Pulcini (below), who began his career by finishing fourth in the 2014 Italian Formula 4 Championship won by Lance Stroll.

Originally on Autosport.com