County Derry rising motorsport star Fionn McLaughlin set to begin new campaign

Irish motorsport will reach a significant milestone this March as two Irish drivers compete on the opening weekend of the international single seater season at Albert Park in Melbourne, host of the Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix.

Fionn McLaughlin begins his 2026 FIA Formula 3 Championship campaign from March 6^th– 8^th as part of the official support programme to Formula 1. On the same weekend, fellow Irish driver Alex Dunne will race in FIA Formula 2, the final step on the pathway to Formula 1.

For a country without a Formula 1 Grand Prix and limited domestic single seater infrastructure, simultaneous representation at both F2 and F3 level is rare. With just 22 seats in Formula 2 and 30 in FIA Formula 3, Ireland’s presence across both categories highlights a strong resurgence of talent within the international motorsport ladder.

Melbourne marks another major step in McLaughlin’s rapid rise. The Red Bull backed driver claimed the Sexton Trophy, Young Racing Driver of the Year award, and secured the FIA British Formula 4 Championship title in his rookie season. He now holds one of only 30 FIA Formula 3 seats worldwide heading into 2026, carrying strong momentum and growing international recognition.

“To start the season in Melbourne on the same weekend as Formula 1 is incredibly exciting,” said McLaughlin. “The goal is to learn and develop, as this is a big step- especially with only one year of experience in a car. We’re approaching this as a two-year program in F3. There are many tracks I’ve never raced at before, so it will definitely be a challenge. The most important thing is building experience and continuing to improve every weekend. I understand that it will take time to consistently fight at the front and win races, but that’s the long-term objective - to be competing for wins and championships.”

Martin McLaughlin, Fionn’s father and manager, added: “This is a proud moment for Irish motorsport. Having Irish representation in both Formula 2 and Formula 3 on the opening weekend of the season reflects the progress being made. Fionn has earned his seat through performance, and the priority now is continued development and consistency.”

FIA Formula 3 is widely recognised as a key development series feeding into Formula 2 and ultimately Formula 1, with many current F1 drivers progressing through the championship.

The 2026 FIA Formula 3 season begins at Albert Park, Melbourne, March 6^th- 8^th.