Feeder Series Testing Update: Prepping for the 2026 Season
As the winter holidays approach, junior single-seater teams and their drivers are diligently preparing for the 2026 racing season. Over the past week, various feeder series drivers participated in several testing sessions, showcasing their skills and getting accustomed to their vehicles ahead of the upcoming competitions.
Post-Season Testing in Formula 1
The recent Formula 1 championship concluded with Lando Norris emerging victorious at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, but the activity in the paddock continued. Just two days after the grand finale, F1 conducted its annual post-season test on December 9, inviting several drivers from feeder series to gain experience in F1 machinery.
Among the notable participants was Kush Maini, who had the opportunity to drive an F1 car for the first time during an official session with Alpine. He was joined by fellow Formula 2 drivers Dino Beganovic, Luke Browning, and Jak Crawford, who tested with Ferrari, Williams, and Aston Martin respectively. Additionally, Arvid Lindblad, who is set to make his F1 debut next year, also drove for Racing Bulls, familiarizing himself with the team’s equipment.
Super Formula Testing
In parallel, Super Formula conducted its two-day post-season test on December 10 and 11, followed by a rookie test on December 12. The reigning champion of the Super Formula Lights, Yuto Nomura, took to the track with B-Max Racing, where he is expected to compete in 2026. Zachary David then replaced him in the morning session of the rookie test, while Yasuhiro Shimizu, despite crashing shortly after starting his session, also tested for the team.
Rikuto Kobayashi was active throughout all three days, testing with TGMGP TGR-DC as he prepares for his anticipated transition to Super Formula next year. Kalle Rovanperä, a two-time world rally champion, participated with Team KCMG but had to withdraw after experiencing vertigo symptoms during the first day’s morning session. Tokiya Suzuki later took over his car for the remainder of the test.
Charlie Wurz and Luke Browning were also notable participants, testing for Team Goh and Kondo Racing, respectively. Additionally, Souta Arao made his debut in the series, driving for ThreeBond Racing.
Formula 2 Testing in Abu Dhabi
The Formula 2 post-season testing occurred from December 10 to 12 at Yas Marina, with all 21 drivers confirmed for the 2026 season participating. Rafael Villagómez, a veteran of the series, also took part, likely gearing up for a third and possibly final season with Van Amersfoort Racing.
This testing session marked a significant milestone for IndyCar driver Colton Herta, who tested the current-generation F2 car with Hitech. While he struggled to break into the top ten during the sessions, Oliver Goethe from MP Motorsport topped the timesheets on the first two days of testing, with Alex Dunne achieving the fastest lap on the final day.
Testing Times Overview
The three-day testing at Abu Dhabi yielded competitive times, with Oliver Goethe setting the pace early on. The results showed a mix of familiar names and rising talent, indicating a thrilling season ahead.
| Session | Driver | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1, AM | Oliver Goethe | 1:38.979 |
| Day 1, PM | Oliver Goethe | 1:37.203 |
| Day 2, AM | Oliver Goethe | 1:37.049 |
| Day 2, PM | Rafael Câmara | 1:37.646 |
| Day 3, AM | Alex Dunne | 1:37.153 |
| Day 3, PM | Oliver Goethe | 1:38.274 |
Multi-Class Testing at MotorLand Aragón
On December 8 and 9, teams from various racing classes convened at MotorLand Aragón for a comprehensive test. Porteiro Motorsport participated with an F3 car, while Van Amersfoort Racing fielded three Tatuus F3 T-318 vehicles, driven by Andrea Dupé, Dion Gowda, and Francisco Macedo, who are all expected to race for the team next season.
Elite Motorsport also showcased two GB3 cars alongside three GB4 cars, with standout performances from several drivers. The GB4 teams, including AS Motorsport and Cram Motorsport, had their own set of drivers, all aiming to gain valuable experience ahead of the upcoming season.
Test Results at Aragón
The times recorded during the Aragón test reflected the competitive spirit of the teams involved. The drivers pushed their limits to prepare for the challenges that lie ahead in the racing calendar.
| Class | Driver | Session Day 1 | Session Day 2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| FRegional | Dion Gowda | 1:50.327 | 1:49.913 |
| GB3 | Yani Stevenheydens | 1:51.509 | 1:51.121 |
| GB4 | Fred Green | 1:59.750 | 1:59.515 |
| F4 | Ginevra Panzeri | 2:00.174 | 1:59.425 |
Eurocup-3 and Spanish F4 Testing at Jerez
The testing activities continued on December 9 and 10 at Jerez, where several teams from Eurocup-3 and Spanish F4 took to the track. Only a few teams from Eurocup-3 participated, with Drivex fielding two cars and GRS providing one. Notably, Gianni Giovanelli was the only identified driver from GRS during this session.
Campos Racing brought four F4 cars to Jerez, with Luna Fluxá being the only identified driver. Drivex showcased a total of seven cars, including signed drivers Nathan Tye and Simón Bulbarella.
Testing Summary at Jerez
The Jerez tests allowed drivers to refine their skills in preparation for the competitive season ahead. The results from these sessions can provide insights into the form and capabilities of the teams.
| Session | Driver | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Eurocup-3, Day 1 | Thomas Strauven | 1:32.342 |
| F4, Day 2 | Nathan Tye | 1:42.289 |
USF Pro 2000, USF 2000, and USF Juniors at Homestead
The YACademy Winter Series hosted a two-day testing event at Homestead-Miami Speedway on December 10 and 11, allowing teams from USF Pro 2000, USF 2000, and USF Juniors to evaluate their drivers and machinery.
Jay Howard Driver Development participated with João Diaz driving one of their USF Pro 2000 cars. Meanwhile, VRD Racing showcased their talents, with Teddy Musella setting the fastest time on the second day of testing.
Testing Performance Overview at Homestead
The results from this testing session highlighted the competitive nature of the participants, as they pushed to improve times and gain insights into their performance.
| Session | Driver | Time |
|---|---|---|
| USF Pro 2000, Day 1 | Sebastian Wheldon | 1:21.469 |
| USF2000, Day 1 | Oliver Wheldon | 1:24.084 |
| USF Juniors, Day 1 | Chace Gassiot-Lee | 1:22.691 |
Final Testing at Barcelona
The last official test of the year for Eurocup-3 and Spanish F4 took place at Barcelona on December 13 and 14. This event included several teams from both series, providing an essential opportunity for drivers to familiarize themselves with their new cars.
The presence of new Dallara 326 cars in Eurocup-3 marked a significant moment for several teams, including Campos Racing and Drivex. Meanwhile, Spanish F4 teams also prepared their drivers for the upcoming season.
Final Test Results at Barcelona
The Barcelona test results were crucial for understanding the competitive landscape heading into the new season. The overall performance showcased the readiness of the teams and drivers as they gear up for the challenges ahead.
| Session | Driver | Time |
|---|---|---|
| EC3, Day 1 | Thomas Strauven | 1:32.342 |
| F4, Day 1 | Campos #4 | 1:42.103 |
These comprehensive testing sessions across various locations and series provide a glimpse into the preparation efforts of junior single-seater teams and drivers. The experiences gained during these tests will undoubtedly play a significant role in shaping their performances in the upcoming season. With the new year approaching, the anticipation for the 2026 racing season continues to build as these young talents strive to make their mark in the world of motorsport.
