Motorsport: Kiwi Marcus Armstrong battling star youngsters in F1 feeder

Kiwi driver Marcus Armstrong has a big racing future ahead of him. Photo / Supplied

Promising Kiwi racer Marcus Armstrong is fighting over the top three positions in the Formula 3 Championship with a couple of the most recognizable up-and-coming stars in the sport.

Armstrong is third in the standings heading into next month's finale at Hockenheim, trailing Mick Schumacher (son of former world champion Michael Schumacher) and Red Bull junior Daniel Ticktum.

The 18-year-old Armstrong led the championship at the midway point but Schumacher has enjoyed a dominant second half to the season and looks set to win the title. But the Kiwi driver has the chance to leapfrog Ticktum into second place.

"I can't say it is the most satisfying feeling in the world slipping back two positions but then again it has actually been quite a rollercoaster ride since the summer break," Armstrong told Radio Sport. "It has been quite clear that Mick has sort of been on a different level but we have one more round to go and I am itching to get one of those dominant weekends in.

"The best thing is that I haven't really got anything to lose. I am a little more relaxed.
"It is not the same feeling when you are fighting for second in the championship and not first. I am only 20 points behind Ticktum so it is still possible I get second."

Brit Ticktum has been highly-regarded by Red Bull and there have even been rumours that he was an option to either join or replace New Zealander Brendon Hartley at the Toro Rosso Formula 1 team next season.

Schumacher naturally attracts a lot of attention given his racing pedigree and he must now be in the frame for an opportunity in Formula 1 in the near future.

"He has a lot of pressure on him," Armstrong explained. "He was never that quick previously but he has managed to put it all together quite well this season."

Armstrong is yet to confirm his plans for 2019 but he might also start to appear on the radar of Formula 1 teams. He is contracted to Ferrari but isn't sure what they have planned for him.

"I wish I knew to be honest but I just need to finish this season. I am lucky that I have the [Ferrari Driver Academy], which is very much behind me. I haven't been told anything but I know the wheels are in motion for what comes next.

"It is almost certain that I will continue with Ferrari next year.

"I feel very privileged to have this backing."