Aaro Vainio joins Lotus GP

Lotus GP is happy to announce that Aaro Vainio will be defending the team’s colors in this year’s GP3 Series championship. The young Finnish driver is no stranger to the GP3 Series in which he participated in 2011.

Heikki Kovalainen, Lotus T128 Renault with Aaro Vainio, in the pits

Photo by: GP3 Series Media Service

At the age of 18, Aaro already had two full seasons of auto racing to his credit. He secured six podiums, two pole positions, and two best laps in 34 races. This winter, he took part in the Barcelona, Valencia, and Jerez tests with Lotus GP and was able to acclimate to the team, which in return got a chance to appreciate his application, determination, technical knowledge, and potential.

In 2012, Aaro will have to move up a level and help the team achieve its objectives, which are holding on to its two titles.

Aaro Vainio: “I'm really excited and pleased to have this opportunity to drive with Lotus GP. This year I will have everything I need to succeed. Equipment and experience are the main keys. Lotus GP is for sure the best team on the field, looking at their fantastic achievements of the past two years, since they are undefeated in the GP3 series. I will do a lot of work and give the team my best so we can achieve great results. I look forward to starting the interseason testing and to working with the team.”

Frederic Vasseur: “Aaro’s first season in the GP3 Series was not always filled with success, but he never lost his focus due to adversity and he showed strong performances on various occasions. Lotus GP confirmed his great potential during the three days of tests held at three different circuits, and we are confident that Aaro will be able to express himself in 2012 so that he is consistently at the front.”