Keohane concludes deal

FOLLOWING months of negotiations with teams in the British Formula 3 Championship, Michael Keohane has concluded a deal that will see the 22-year-old contest the Formula 1 feeder series in a works Lola drive.

Lola is owned by Irishman Martin Birrane, who also owns Mondello Park.

The Clonakilty driver has signed for the Sweeney Racing team, headed by Dublin-born John Sweeney and joins Portadown’s, Adam Carroll in what has become a strong Irish set-up.

Keohane, who finished fifth in the British F3 Championship last season, despite missing five races, is satisfied his plans have come to fruition.

“It’s great to have made a final decision. I waited for several weeks for the right offer. Each time I was just about to reach a decision, a better offer surfaced and it was a case of back to the drawing board. It is a super opportunity to work with a manufacturer and to gain experience at this level. The fact that there is a big Irish involvement is another bonus,” he said.

“I can’t wait for the start of the season, I am looking forward to working with my engineer, Roli Vinceni. He’s very experienced.

“This is my second year at Championship Class level. That was always the intention and it was the way my late father, Paddy, had also suggested.

“It’s nice to have been chosen by Lola to develop the car.” said Keohane.