The Formula Regional European Championship is set to embark on a bold new chapter under the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile banner this weekend, as the 2026 season roars into life at the iconic Red Bull Ring. Among the frontrunners, PREMA Racing arrives determined to extend its legacy in one of Europe’s most fiercely contested junior categories.
Since the introduction of the Formula Regional concept in 2019, PREMA Racing has established itself as a dominant force, securing six drivers’ championships and five teams’ titles. With the dawn of this new FIA era, the team is targeting further success and aiming to build on its remarkable record.
PREMA will field a dynamic three car lineup blending proven winners and rising talent. Leading the charge in car #51 is Kean Nakamura Berta, the reigning Italian Formula 4 and E4 Champion, who has already made a statement in 2026 by clinching the Formula Regional Middle East Championship title. His early success came aboard the new Tatuus T 326, which now underpins the European series in its fully FIA sanctioned format.
Joining him in car #60 is Tomass Stolcermanis, returning to PREMA Racing after demonstrating promising pace during his Formula 4 campaign. The Latvian driver continues his development within the team as he steps up to the Formula Regional level.
Completing the lineup, Salim Hanna will pilot car #88. After an impressive 2025 season in the Italian Formula 4 Championship where he emerged as a race winning contender and dominated the Rookie standings, Hanna now takes the next step in his career.
Following extensive winter testing, the championship begins at one of its most demanding circuits. The Red Bull Ring’s short, technical layout, combined with heavy braking zones and natural overtaking opportunities, promises intense, wheel to wheel action. With a tightly matched field expected, fans can anticipate a weekend of close and spectacular racing.
Adding to the excitement, the 2026 season introduces a revamped race weekend format. Each round will feature three races: two qualifying sessions will set the grids for Race 1 and Race 3, while Race 2 will adopt a top 12 reverse grid based on the first qualifying results ensuring even more unpredictability and action across the weekend.
As a new era begins, PREMA Racing stands ready to fight at the front once again, determined to add new milestones to its already illustrious history.
Stephen Mitas - Team Principal & CEO
"We are extremely delighted to start the new era of Formula Regional, and to do so after the impressive results we achieved with the same package in the Middle East. FIA FREC will be a high-profile challenge, but we underwent thorough preparation and with such a competent lineup, we have the skill and resources we need to carry on the team's legacy in the series."