Heading into Round 1 of the F3 2026 season, Freddie Slater will experience his first race in Melbourne. The rookie driver is embarking on his first full season of F3. Although he took part in three races last season, this will be the true test. Ahead of the weekend, the TRIDENT driver opened up about his expectations for the season in a press conference attended by Pit Debrief.
When asked about the challenge of preparing for a new track and any concerns ahead of the F3 Australian GP, Slater said:
“Really excited to get going. It’s been a long build-up we’ve had now to get to this point. A lot of simulator preparation, a lot of going through history of years before and just trying to learn as much as I can of what can happen and just trying to work out the reference points, how the tyre will hopefully react compared to last year. All these little bits which will make my life a little bit easier. I’m not worried at all. I’ve just got to trust myself, trust my driving skills, and then get stuck in from there”
As the British driver secured a podium in his F3 debut last year at the Sakhir Sprint Race, his confidence is well-earned. This season, he will aim to replicate that performance and take the lessons from his outings with him.
Maximising results and enjoying the journey
Slater impressed in his three appearances last season. However, this time will be more challenging as he must maintain consistency throughout a full season. In a series like F3, pace and performance are important; however, consistency leads to champions. With ten rounds ahead of them, anything can happen.
Slater was asked about his mindset going into the first round and whether he would take the results seriously or see it as a way to get up to speed.
“For me it’s very important to start on the front foot but there is ten rounds and it’s Formula 3, anything can happen. I think it’s just about scoring good averages. I don’t think in this championship you’re going to walk away with ten wins, let’s say. So I think it’s just important to keep on maximising the bad days and then enjoy it as you go along.”
Consistency as a team for TRIDENT
F3 forces not only drivers to be consistent to achieve success, but also teams. Slater discussed the importance of consistency within the team and why teammates need to be well-matched.
“For me, I think this year is going to be closer than it was last year, let’s say between all the teams because everyone’s had a year and a bit to tune their car and get closer. There’s only so far you can go. So for sure it’s going to be closer, but I have full trust in my team to deliver and give me the best package every single weekend. So I’ve got to do my job. They’ve got to do their job. And hopefully it all comes together when we get to Madrid at the end of the year.”
TRIDENT enters 2026 with a driver line-up consisting of two rookies and one driver in his second season. While adapting to a F3 car can be challenging, Slater’s confidence is a reassuring sign. Slater begins his F3 journey at the Australian GP this weekend.
