Ben Jelf secured his best result to date in the third round of the 2024 F1H2O World Championship at the Regione Sardegna Grand Prix of Italy last weekend.

After a disastrous round in Vietnam, Maidstone’s F1 Atlantic Team racer Jelf qualified in 13th position out of 18 of the world’s best for the Grand Prix race in difficult conditions before he secured a strong sixth-placed finish in the sprint.

Jelf then lined up 10th for the Grand Prix - with three competitors forced to make engine changes, meaning they moved to the back of the grid, moving the youngster up the field - and he swiftly sat right on the tail of Norwegian Marit Stromoy in the hopes of getting the jump on her and some others.

Forty laps of exhilarating action unfolded and Jelf worked his way through to another sixth place, leaving him 10th in the championship standings.

“I’m so happy,” said the elated racer. “That race was really intense, the conditions out there were very tricky.

“I have to thank my team for all their hard work, especially my mum and dad. I couldn’t do it without them. Also, thanks to our sponsors and all our supporters.

“Now, we look to the next round and, hopefully, secure some more championship points for the team.”

The next round is in China in October.