DAMS Lucas Oil is all set for the opening round of the 2025 season in Melbourne this weekend as the Le Mans-based squad prepares for action in both Formula 2 and Formula 3 for the first-time in the modern era.

On-track

In F2, Aston Martin Driver Development Programme member Jak Crawford continues at the team after finishing fifth in the standings last year, and is joined by Alpine F1 Team Test and Reserve Driver Kush Maini to form an experienced duo.

DAMS Lucas Oil will also field a F3 team this season, with second-year F3 driver Matías Zagazeta alongside Alpine Academy member Nicola Lacorte and 2024 Eurocup-3 Champion Christian Ho.

The French outfit has expanded and welcomed several new staff members due to the introduction of the new F3 project, as well as a brand-new team truck for transportation between events.

A 5.278-kilometre trip around the picturesque Albert Park awaits the five DAMS Lucas Oil drivers, with a staggering four DRS (Drag Reduction System) zones in use to aid overtaking.

The squad’s best memory down under came two years ago as Ayumu Iwasa and Arthur Leclerc secured an unbelievable 1-3 finish in Sunday’s Feature Race, after the Japanese driver took pole position earlier in the weekend.

Off-track

DAMS continue their partnership alongside Lucas Oil, who provide the best oils, additives, lubricants and other workshop accessories. Since the beginning of the modern F2-era, the American company has worked with the French squad and expanded their sponsorship in 2024 when the team was renamed DAMS Lucas Oil.

OMP Racing will once again supply the best-quality race suits for the F2 and F3 drivers throughout the season, renewing an ongoing relationship since 2023.

The squad welcomed a new sponsor recently as Milwaukee Tool France, who are a world leader in the power tool market, will provide the mechanics with the necessary equipment at the workshop and during race weekends.

Errea continue their long-standing partnership with the Le Mans-based outfit as they will supply the team kit for staff and drivers throughout the campaign.

8JS will once again keep the squad looking stylish when travelling between events as they have done since the beginning of 2024, providing polo shirts, half-zip jackets and lightweight coats.

B.R.M Chronographes enters the second year of their partnership with DAMS Lucas Oil after producing a series of automatic watches in the team’s colours, which are available to buy on their website.

Koesio is supplying the squad their printers and materials for the workshop to ensure that everyone is all set and geared up for the opening rounds in Australia.

Run Aventure will be keeping our staff’s feet comfortable throughout race weekends with their unique range of shoes for our mechanics and engineers.

DAMS Lucas Oil would like to thank all its partners for their continued support as they enter an exciting new chapter, competing in F3 alongside F2 in 2025.

Formula 1 and former DAMS driver Pierre Gasly’s 2015 GP2 Series car was on display at Jouéclub Le Mans last week to promote the release of the new Lego Formula 1 cars. The show car is available for hire for events, which can be organised by contacting the DAMS Lucas Oil team.

Hear from the drivers

Jak Crawford: “After a productive and valuable preseason testing in Barcelona, I’m feeling confident and excited to get the season underway. The team has put in a lot of hard work, and we’ve gathered crucial data to fine-tune everything ahead of the first race. Now, all focus is on Melbourne, and I can’t wait to hit the track and get the season started!”

Kush Maini: “We gathered a lot of valuable data and learnt plenty throughout the three days of testing in Barcelona. I’ve moved my base to be closer to the team in Le Mans so we can work together more regularly and ensure a strong campaign. I got my first F2 podium in Melbourne so it’s a track that I enjoy and I’m excited to get back out there this weekend.”

Nicola Lacorte: “The testing last month was very interesting, and I left feeling extremely motivated for the season to begin. This event will be unique for me as it’s my first time in Australia as well as my first time at a street circuit. We’ve got elements to work on, but the car feels good, and I can’t wait to drive it in a competitive environment.”

Matías Zagazeta: “It’s been a great transition to DAMS Lucas Oil after my first year in F3, and I’ve been made to feel welcome by the team. There are several new factors to consider for everyone on the grid with a new model of car and different tyres. It’s about learning to understand this and after a full season in F3 in 2024, I know that I can help everyone adapt to these changes. I’m hoping that my experience can ensure that we have a strong and successful campaign together.”

Christian Ho: “The car is really nice to drive and very fast compared to what I’ve experienced in other racing series previously. The team have been amazing, and we worked extremely hard throughout the test in Barcelona to make sure we’re in a good place in Australia. It’s an honour to be the first Singaporean driver to compete in F3 and I’m looking forward to representing my country on the biggest stage.”

Charles Pic, Team Owner: “We’re delighted to start a new era for the team, now competing in F3 alongside F2. It’s a great step as we look to continue to support and bring through the best young talents in motorsport. I would like to thank our partners for their incredible support of the squad as we enter this exciting new chapter of our journey. We’re excited to kick off our 2025 campaign in Melbourne this weekend and achieve some positive results on track.”