Indy NXT driver takes over Formula 2 seat for raceweekend in Monza
- Sandy van Wijngaarden
Formula 2 gains a second Dutchman in the field from this weekend. Besides Richard Verschoor, Niels Koolen will also take part in the junior series. The second Dutchman will drive for the AIX Racing team.
Niels Koolen makes his debut at this weekend's Italian Grand Prix
Niels Koolen is a 23-year-old driver from Vorden. The Dutchman previously competed in Spanish Formula 4, Italian Formula 4, Formula Regional Middle East Championship, Formula Regional European Championship and Eurocup-3. He is currently active in the Indy NXT and the LMP2 class of the European Le Mans Series.
Koolen will take the seat of Taylor Barnard, who is leaving F2 early. Barnard will drive for NEOM McLaren in Formula E next season. He managed to win one race in his F2 career, in Monaco.
Alongside Koolen, Verschoor is also in Formula 2. Verschoor is having a mediocre season. He won the sprint race in Hungary, but he was disqualified afterwards. He is now 13th in the championship with 45 points.
This article has been written in collaboration with Ben Stevens.
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