Jack Butel has undertaken several test programmes as he evaluates his racing options for 2017. The 20-year-old had a solid season in the British F4 series in 2016 and on the back of his single-seater campaign was offered several test sessions with United Autosports and FF Corse to try out their latest machines.Shortly after his mechanical retirement on the Paperclix Jersey Rally, Jack was back to his familiar circuit racing surroundings as the Channel Islander first of all tested the futuristic Liger LMP3 machine with the West Yorkshire-based United Autosports. Butel notched up over 80 laps at Snetterton circuit in the 5-litre, 420 brake horsepower sports prototype.During the off-season, the St Saviour resident also had the opportunity to get behind the wheel of the finest from Italy, the Ferrari 458 prepared by FF Corse. The supercar and Butel instantly clicked at Silverstone with the Jersey driver setting quick lap times in his first GT outing.“Our end of season tests were very important for us to try other formula and cars as we continue our decision making ahead of 2017.” Explained Butel.“It was a fantastic opportunity to drive the LMP3 car and the Ferrari and it really opened my eyes to sports car racing, a discipline I would like to enter in the future.
“To have a roof over my head, flying around a circuit took some time to get used to, but what struck me most was the downforce and aerodynamic capabilities. For quite big cars – you could really push them hard. The power from both cars were phenomenal and to be on the pace of the established drivers was quite pleasing for my first go in two different cars.“I would like to thank United Autosports, FF Corse as well as the continued support from my sponsors for the opportunity to drive these amazing machines. We are close to making a decision on our plans for 2017 and these tests gave us more experience in different types of cars, which in turn has helped me develop as a driver.”