Juan Manuel Correa to make sensational racing return in F3 after recovering from Spa crash injuries

Juan Manuel Correa will make an inspirational return to racing less than two years on from the shocking accident at Spa that saw him suffer serious injuries, with the Ecuadorian-American racer joining Formula 3 race winners ART Grand Prix for the 2021 season.

Correa underwent several surgeries and lived with a brace on his leg for more than a year as part of a lengthy rehabilitation process after the Formula 2 crash that tragically claimed the life of fellow racer Anthoine Hubert in 2019.

The 21-year-old is now primed to resume his career just 16 months after the crash, with his pre-season programme already underway.

“First of all, I’m extremely happy to be back after what I’ve been through," he said. "I am super thankful to ART Grand Prix; it means a lot to me that they’re believing in me and my comeback. F3 is a transition year, my dream is still to reach F1 and this is the first step in my comeback.

"My targets are a bit ahead of myself, because I still have to do a lot, I have not driven a car for a year and a half and there is a big learning curve ahead. I’m entering this season with an open mind, I won’t put pressure on myself, I will do my best, I will do what I love and that’s already a victory."

Correa was a double-podium finisher in Formula 2 prior to the accident, scoring second place in the Sprint Races at Baku and Le Castellet. He also has past experience of GP3, spending a season and a half with Jenzer Motorsport, where he scored a string of points finishes.

WATCH: Drivers honour the memory of Anthoine Hubert at Spa

Team Principal Sebastien Philippe added: “Since his horrendous accident in Spa, on August 30th 2019, Juan Manuel has been through a lot of phases, always fighting while keeping in mind that he did not want to give up on his dream to keep racing at the highest possible level.

"Juan Manuel is an example of bravery and tenacity and ART Grand Prix is proud to give him the opportunity to return to racing. Juan Manuel is extremely strong mentally, he is still fighting to be as fit as possible and he is hungry. Behind the wheel, his talent is immense, as shown by his achievements in go-karts and then his first few years in motorsport.

"We are keen to accompany Juan Manuel to resume his career and to help him climb the ladder once again. He will give the team the benefit of his talent and experience.”