Bustamante returns to the series where she made her single-seater debut in 2022
Valuable learning opportunity at the iconic Circuit of The Americas in Texas
The Filipina relishes chance to gain more American racing experience
Philippine rising star Bianca Bustamante won't be taking a summer holiday this year, as she is set to race in the final three races of the USF Juniors Presented by Cooper Tires, to be held from August 25th to 27th at the iconic Circuit of The Americas in Austin, Texas. Having competed in the first four weekends of the series' inaugural season in 2022, USF Juniors holds a special connection to Bustamante as it marked her debut in the world of single-seater racing. This year, the young Filipina will be driving with a highly successful team from Canada, Exclusive Autosport.
For the first time, Bustamante will be tackling one of the most demanding and exciting tracks in the United States, the Circuit of The Americas. The track’s challenging layout is filled with a combination of sweeping corners, and technical sections throughout. With 20 turns, which includes the iconic "Esses", the circuit's elevation changes provide a thrilling obstacle that truly tests drivers' skill. For the 18-year-old, the challenges this track presents offers various learning opportunities, as she goes head-to-head against some of the most promising junior-category drivers from across the United States.
The 2023 season for USF Juniors began in March and the series was essentially designed as an introductory program for aspiring young drivers to move onto the highly competitive USF2000 platform. To aid in the teen’s preparation for the race at Austin next week and to familiarize herself with the Tatuus JR-23 machinery, she recently completed two days of testing with Exclusive Autosport at Autobahn Country Club in Joliet, Illinois.
Bustamante will be returning 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. This opportunity has been made possible through the support of her title partner, Lance East Exotics.
Bianca Bustamante | Driver, #95 Exclusive Autosport
“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. 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!”
