The recent downpours have been great for gardens, but not so great for an Argentinean hotshot staying in Esher while he makes his mark in the Formula Ford premier division.

Eric Lichentstein, 17, is seen as a prime contender for champion Cavan Corcoran’s title.

Despite being the second youngest driver at the opening race of the 2012 Dunlop MSA Formula Ford Championship of Great Britain at Oulton Park this month, he sped into second place.

So far, he said the British weather was the biggest obstacle to shaking champagne on the winner’s podium.

He said: “I have to learn to drive in the rain. I was expecting to do better at Oulton Park – we were very, very fast in the test but I missed a bit and had to start the race from fourth position.

“I didn’t understand the tyres very well – in 10 years of racing I’ve raced perhaps 10 races in the rain, but here it’s all in the rain.”

Mr Lichenstein is staying with his other backer, Argentine engineer Sergio Rinland, at his home in Esher.

The student attends Ort, the world’s largest Jewish education and vocational training provider, and will next race at Brands Hatch on May 22.