Toro Rosso contender Alex Lynn crowned GP3 Champion after qualifying in Abu Dhabi

Alex Lynn clinched the GP3 Drivers’ Championship after Dean Stoneman failed to take pole position in Abu Dhabi.

The Red Bull Junior could only be denied the title if his compatriot picked up maximum points by winning both races and taking the bonus points for pole and fastest lap in both races and after Marvin Kirchhofer topped the session Lynn was crowned champion.

The 21-year-old is in contention to partner Max Verstappen at Toro Rosso next season – a move that would see him follow in the footsteps of 2013 GP3 Champion Daniil Kvyat.

“It’s so great to take the championship! I’m really grateful to everyone within the team, they’ve worked so hard for this all year and it’s fantastic to give them this reward – and also awesome for me too,” Lynn said.

“We started the season on a high and we left no stone unturned throughout so I’m massively proud of this achievement.

“It’s been a tireless effort from everyone; late nights, long days back at the workshop and pushing hard every weekend. Now we switch the focus to bringing home the Teams’ title because Carlin deserves that after the season we’ve had.

“Sure, it’s a shame to not have won it on the track but that’s racing and we weren’t quite there for pole today. But Emil and I are in a great position for tomorrow and aim to score heavily in the remaining two races of the season.”