Race teams and drivers from around the world gathered at NOLA Motorsports Park in Avondale, Louisiana, on March 26-27 for a two-day pre-season test. This event provided competitors in the Formula Regional Americas Championship (FR Americas), Formula 4 United States Championship (F4 U.S.), and Ligier Junior Formula Championship (Ligier JFC) with an invaluable opportunity to prepare for the upcoming 2026 season.
With two full days of on-track activity, drivers enjoyed over six and a half hours of track time to familiarise themselves with both the circuit and their cars. Additionally, the test included a media day, where drivers participated in interviews, content creation, and headshot sessions, ensuring they were fully ready for the challenges ahead.
Perspectives on pre-season testing ahead of 2026 FRAC
The pre-season test is an essential part of a driver’s preparation, offering a chance to refine skills, test new equipment, and knock off any rust accumulated during the winter break. Scott Goodyear, Race Director for Ligier JFC, F4 U.S., and FR Americas, shared his thoughts on the significance of these testing days.
“As a driver, I always enjoyed pre-season tests, as it gave me an opportunity to knock off the rust from the winter break,” said Goodyear. “As a race director, I’m very happy that we give returning drivers and rookies an opportunity to prepare for the first race of the season, which is just a short two weeks away. From watching the pace of the test and the quality of the field, we are set for another terrific season of racing across all three championships.”
The importance of this testing period is evident not only for refining technique but also for acclimating to new teams, cars, and environments, all of which are crucial for success in the upcoming season.
A packed 2026 season ahead
The 2026 season promises to be a thrilling spectacle, with all three championship series visiting some of North America’s most iconic racing circuits. Ligier JFC will hold 16 races at six venues, F4 U.S. will contest 18 races at seven tracks, and FR Americas will travel to eight venues for a total of 21 races.
The first major competition will take place at NOLA in two weeks, with all three series racing together. From there, the ladder system will bring drivers to other renowned tracks, including Road America, Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, and New Jersey Motorsports Park. Drivers will also compete at VIRginia International Raceway before the season concludes with a championship showdown at Barber Motorsports Park in October.
Notably, the calendar will feature a cross-border race at Canadian Tire Motorsports Park during Labour Day Weekend. Additionally, FR Americas will take to the legendary Indianapolis Motor Speedway over Father’s Day Weekend, a unique and thrilling challenge for drivers.
With valuable prizes and scholarships on the line, the 2026 season promises to be a heated battle across all three championships. In Ligier JFC and F4 U.S., drivers will compete for champion scholarships that provide them with the chance to move up to the next rung of the ladder. These scholarships include a chassis and engine lease, race tyres, and entry fees for upcoming races.
Meanwhile, in FR Americas, the stakes are even higher, as the season champion will receive a significant $100,000 cash prize, awarded at the conclusion of the season. The intensity of the competition is sure to grow as these promising drivers chase their dreams of a career in motorsport, with each race playing a crucial role in determining their future.
