Newly-crowned 2025 Wera Tools British F4 champion Fionn McLaughlin will step up to FIA Formula 3 in 2026.
The 17-year-old Red Bull Junior driver clinched the British F4 title this weekend at Brands Hatch by a 52.5 margin, triumphing with two races to spare, and finished the season with five wins and a further nine podiums, two pole positions and eight fastest laps overall.
He also picked up 25 Rookie Cup podiums, including 17 wins, on his way to wrapping up the Rookie Cup title two rounds early, and additionally took pole position plus a podium finish at the non-championship round supporting the F1 British GP at Silverstone.
The Irishman will continue with his team Hitech TGR and become one of several British F4 alumni on the FIA ladder, including his new team-mate Michael Shin.
“I’m incredibly proud of everything I’ve achieved this year – it’s already been a whirlwind journey from karting to single-seaters, and now stepping up to FIA Formula 3 with Hitech is a dream come true,” McLaughlin said.
“I want to thank everyone who has supported me along the way, especially Hitech and the Red Bull Junior Team for their trust and belief in my potential.
“This next step is a huge opportunity for me. The competition will be tough, but I feel ready for the challenge.
“I’ve learned so much this season, from adapting quickly to different circuits and managing the pressures of race weekends, and I’m excited to keep pushing forward and proving myself.
“My goal is to continue progressing and make the most of every chance I get on the path to Formula 1.”
Hitech Team Manager Paul Bellringer added: “At Hitech, we’ve closely followed Fionn’s progress in the entry categories of the Formula Winter Series and the British F4 Championship, and we’ve been consistently impressed by his speed, maturity, and racecraft.
“His rapid development and ability to adapt to different challenges – such as new circuits, F1-grade tracks like Silverstone GP and Zandvoort, and varying track conditions – will stand him in good stead for FIA Formula 3.
“We’re confident Fionn is ready for this next important step in his career, and we look forward to supporting his continued development as he aims for the top.”
