Clapham's Sam Hancock has set his sights firmly on becoming Britain's next motor racing hero as he plots his breakthrough into Formula One.

For 2003, the 23-year-old driver has entered the feeder division for Formula One, Formula 3000, and will also drive in the Le Mans 24-hour race in June.

Hancock has offers from three racing teams to take part in Formula 3000 but must raise £450,000 in sponsorship money to compete.

Despite the vast amount of cash needed, Hancock is determined to succeed and fulfil his lifelong dream of making the starting grid in Formula One.

"In tennis if you win every match you will play in a Wimbledon final, but in motor racing you need sponsorship to get anywhere," said Hancock, who became the youngest-ever Briton to drive a Ferrari in the Le Mans race last year.

"To compete in Formula 3000 can cost more than £800,000 so it's a great boost that major teams have such a belief in my ability they are willing to subsidise so much of the expense."

"I love the Le Mans race. It is the most widely-viewed race in the world, but getting through to Formula One is the ultimate aim for me."

Hancock, managed by Athole Still International whose clients include Sven Goran Erikkson and Sir Steven Redgrave, has earned praise from former Formula One drivers Jean-Marc Gounon and Jonathan Palmer.

The Clapham driver is honoured to have earned such glowing remarks so early in his career and is now intent on emulating hero Ayrton Senna.

"It has been the nicest pat on the back to receive these compliments because it reinforces the job I'm doing, but also shows the need to continue with all the hard work," he said.

"When I was younger I was the typical Brit, supporting Nigel Mansell, but then I read Ayrton Senna's autobiography and there was something about it that blew me away."

"To achieve anything near what he managed during his career would be fantastic."

If anyone is interested in sponsoring Sam, call the sportsdesk on 020 8329 9309.

January 31, 2003 11:32