Jason Alder wins on Formula Regional Americas debut as Kyffin Simpson crowned champion

Jason Alder has won on his Formula Regional Americas debut as Kyffin Simpson locked out the championship at COTA.

Jason Alder took the win in his first ever Formula Regional Americas start. (Formula Regional Americas)

Alder started in fifth, moving his way up to third by lap six.

With the leaders squabbling into Turn 1, Alder took the lead and stormed to the chequered flag.

"I really just can’t believe we’re here," said Alder.

"It’s been an incredible effort from everybody at Velocity Racing Development."

"It’s been a learning experience for me and we’re just trying to get a head start on next year."

"To come out with a win is sort of incredible for me, for the boys, and everyone back at the shop."

The 18 year-old American moved over to FR Americas after a successful Formula 4 United States rookie season, where he finished the year in third.

"I have some working out to do," said Alder.

"Dealing with the weight was the biggest challenge."

"This is the most physically demanding race I’ve ever participated in."

"The FR car is a bit more physical than a Formula 4 car."

Kyffin Simpson is the 2021 Formula Regional Americas champion. (Kyffin Simpson/Facebook)

Alder finished ahead of Kiwi Ryan Yardley, with Ernie Francis, Jr completing the podium.

"We struggled this morning with qualifying and to be fair we didn’t really have the pace in the race," said Yardley.

"Luck had our way today, so hopefully, we tune it up overnight and get more speed out of it for tomorrow."

"Thanks to Kiwi Motorsport."

"I’m stoked to be racing here at Circuit of The Americas."

Kyffin Simpson finished eleventh after starting on pole, but with Aussie Joshua Car out of the race, it was enough to build an unbeatable lead in the championship.

Car finished the year second in the standings with two races remaining.