Bustamante to race in USF Juniors

Philippines’ rising star Bianca Bustamante is set to compete in the last three races of this year’s USF Juniors presented by Cooper Tires.

The Filipino rising star will go head-to-head against some of the most promising junior-category drivers from across the United States under Exclusive Autosport on August 25-27 at the Circuit of The Americas in Austin, Texas.

For the first time, the 18-year-old racer will drive on one of the most demanding and exciting tracks in the United States — famous for its sweeping corners and technical sections all throughout the course that includes iconic "Esses"; the circuit's elevation changes provide a thrilling obstacle that truly tests drivers’ skill.

Bustamante said that she looks at the numerous challenges on the track as learning opportunities.

“America holds an incredibly special place in my heart, as it was in USF Juniors where I competed in my first ever single-seater race. I’m very excited to be returning to where my professional racing journey began and to be competing in the series’ final round with the esteemed Exclusive Autosport,” the lady driver said.

“For the upcoming race, my main focus is making use of the track time, learning the circuit, and continuing to progress. I'm grateful for this opportunity and looking forward to racing alongside this tough grid of drivers. In preparation for this race, there is still a lot to do and I will work hard to maximize in all aspects. The two days of testing at Autobahn went very well, so I will approach the race weekend with confidence and determination to do my best,” she added.

The USF Juniors 2023 season commenced last March and the series was essentially designed as an introductory program for aspiring young drivers to move onto the highly competitive USF2000 platform.

To get familiar with the Tatuus JR-23 machinery as well as prepare her for the competition next week, Bustamante recently completed two days of testing with Exclusive Autosport at Autobahn Country Club in Joliet, Illinois. 

Further, Bustamante will return to the same Circuit of The Americas as a support race to the United States Grand Prix in October for the final round of F1 Academy. The aforementioned opportunity has been made possible through the support of her title partner, Lance East Exotics.

Photos from CBR Media, USF Juniors

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