Collard replaces Herta in Carlin's BRDC Formula 4 line-up

Trevor Carlin's team announced on Thursday that Herta, son of IndyCar race winner Bryan, was calling off his 2016 BRDC F4 plans in favour of a move into the squad's Euroformula Open programme.

The change was prompted because Herta would have to miss the BRDC F4 opener as he does not turn 16 in time, whereas the Euroformula schedule starts a month later.

Carlin has immediately filled the vacancy with Collard, who was the main opposition to the team's MSA Formula champion Lando Norris last season.

McLaren Autosport BRDC Award finalist Collard will now become a team-mate to Norris, who will contest most of the BRDC F4 season alongside his Formula Renault Eurocup and NEC commitments.

"Ricky was a great competitor in MSA Formula last season and put up a great fight to Lando in the championship battle," said Carlin.

"We're very excited that we now have the opportunity to fight for the BRDC title together this season."

Collard described the Carlin deal as "the best opportunity I've ever had."

The 19-year-old added: "Finishing second in the MSA Formula was great last year but obviously I want to go that one place further.

"Fighting with Lando in different cars was great in 2015 and now we will be able to push each other hard in the same car, which will also help the team internally."