Mark Webber signs Aussie Oscar Piastri ahead of his Formula 3 debut

Formula 1 legend Mark Webber has signed Australian rising star Oscar Piastri to Jam Sports Management, on the eve of his FIA Formula 3 debut.

Piastri commenced his FIA F3 campaign today in Bahrain, driving in the pre-season test for Prema Racing.

The 18 year-old has graduated to the world stage after taking out the Formula Renault Eurocup last year.

Jam Sports Management was founded by Webber and his wife and manager Ann with respected sports and corporate CEO Jason Allen.

The nine-time Grand Prix winner will act as driver’s agent for Piastri, while Ann Webber and Allen will develop commercial opportunities.

“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,” Webber said.

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

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

Piastri’s championship campaign earned him a spot in the Renault Sport Academy, firmly setting him on the route to Formula One.

“Oscar is in a great position with Renault, they are investing in him, they believe he’s a horse worth backing and keeping a tight eye on, and that’s exciting for him and Australian motorsport,” Webber said.

“He’s trying to get to an extremely tough category in Formula 1, and he knows what’s ahead of him, but Renault and ourselves know Oscar is an incredibly confident young lad, and we think he can do great things.”

Piastri said he was thrilled at the new development in his fast-moving career.

“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 is one of four Australians competing in the FIA Formula 3 championship, which gets underway today with a three-day test session in Bahrain.