Hon Chio “Charles” Leong will take to the wheel of the Jenzer Motorsport machine for the Formula 3 season closer in Sochi.

Born in Macau, Leong replaces Giorgio Carrara and will race alongside Andreas Estner and the Championship’s newest race winner, Yuki Tsunoda.

The 18-year-old began karting in Macau and China before making the step up to single-seaters in 2017, earning his first win in Chinese F4. He also finished seventh in Formula Masters China.

In 2017, he joined the Asian Formula Renault series, while continuing in Chinese F4. He went on to dominate both categories and take first place come the end of the campaign.

He stepped up to Asian F3 the following season and took fourth place, earning six podiums with Hitech Dragon GP. Leong also finished sixth in Formula Renault Asia, with 90 points.

Jenzer have also confirmed that the 18-year-old will take part in post-season testing in Valencia following the conclusion of the season, with the aim of competing in the Macau Grand Prix.

On joining the team, Leong elated: “It was my birthday last week when we signed the contract. I look very much forward to driving the new car and to compete in my home Grand Prix again.”

Andreas Jenzer added: “With his experience he is well qualified to step up to FIA F3 and to compete again in the Macau Grand Prix this year. We are excited to do this programme with Charles.”