The 2026 GB4 Championship bursts into life at Silverstone this weekend, where a record-breaking grid of 29 drivers prepares to tackle the iconic Grand Prix circuit. This impressive entry highlights the championship’s growing reputation as a key stepping stone for aspiring Formula 1 talent.
Moreover, the field represents 12 different nationalities, blending experienced returnees with promising newcomers. As a result, the stage is set for one of the most competitive GB4 seasons to date.
Testing builds towards competitive action as 2026 GB4 season gets underway at Silverstone
The weekend begins with two full days of testing, giving teams valuable time to refine their setups before Qualifying.
Thursday 23 April (live timing)
- 10:10–10:40
- 12:25–12:55
- 15:25–15:55
Friday 24 April (live timing)
- 09:35–10:05
- 11:55–12:25
Across these sessions, drivers will benefit from two and a half hours of track time. Consequently, teams must maximise every lap as they prepare for the first competitive sessions of the year.
Pre-season form points to key contenders
Heading into the opener, several drivers have already stood out during pre-season testing. Luke Hilton arrives in strong form after topping multiple test days following his switch to Nitrous Competitions ADM Racing.
Meanwhile, Alex O’Grady continues to impress for KMR Sport, having already secured race victories last season. Similarly, Elite Motorsport’s Fred Green has made a seamless transition to single-seaters, consistently running at the front.
Elsewhere, Thomas Ingram Hill has shown exceptional pace at Silverstone itself, while Enzo Hallman and Franciszek Cegielski also appear well placed to challenge near the front. Consequently, the fight for early supremacy looks wide open.
Qualifying and Race Format Explained
Competitive action begins on Saturday with a crucial Qualifying session:
Saturday 25 April
- 11:50 – Qualifying
- 16:50 – Race 1
The 15-minute Qualifying session determines the grid for both opening races. Each driver’s fastest lap sets the Race One grid, while their second-best lap decides the Race Two order. Therefore, consistency across multiple laps becomes essential.
For 2026, race duration increases to 20 minutes, adding a new strategic element and placing greater emphasis on tyre management and racecraft.
Following Saturday’s opening race, the action continues into Sunday:
Sunday 26 April
- 09:00 – Race 2
- 16:15 – Race 3
With three races across the weekend, drivers must maintain consistency while seizing opportunities. Furthermore, the expanded race length increases the likelihood of strategic battles and late-race moves.
Full entry list for 2026 GB4 Silverstone opener
A record grid brings together an exciting mix of talent:
KMR Sport
- Alex O’Grady (Ireland)
- Lily-May Watkins (Great Britain)
- Holly Miall (Great Britain)
Idola Motorsport
- Jamie Leverton (Great Britain)
Elite Motorsport
- Emmilio Valentino Del Grosso (Venezuela)
- Fred Green (Great Britain)
- Matan Achituv (Israel)
Hillspeed
- Demitri Nolan (USA)
- Enzo Hallman (Sweden)
- Connor Willis (USA)
Fortec Motorsports
- Thomas Ingram Hill (Great Britain)
- Franciszek Cegielski (Poland)
- Jordyn Martin (USA)
Scorpio Motorsport
- Romuald Bocquet (France)
- Archie Davies (Great Britain)
Pace Performance
- John O’Donnell (Korea/USA)
- Torrin Byrne (Great Britain)
- Josh McLean (Great Britain)
Arden Motorsport
- Charlie Myers (Great Britain)
- Michael Koh (Singapore/USA)
- Solenn Amrouche (France)
Douglas Motorsport
- Jason Smyth (Ireland)
- Dayton Coulthard (Great Britain)
- Conor Grant (Ireland)
Fox Motorsport
- Jasser Iskander (Saudi Arabia)
- Enzo Rujugiro (South Africa)
- Archie Bullard (Great Britain)
Nitrous Competitions ADM Racing
- Caitlyn McDaniel (USA)
- Luke Hilton (Great Britain)
This diverse grid combines experienced racers with exciting rookies, ensuring unpredictable and competitive racing throughout the weekend.
How to follow the action
Fans can follow every session through live timing, while all races will be streamed live via the GB4 website, the MSV TV YouTube channel and Facebook. Each broadcast begins 20 minutes before the race, featuring previews and post-race analysis.
Additionally, the open paddock allows spectators to meet drivers and teams, offering a unique insight into the championship.
A season full of opportunity
Following Silverstone, the championship continues across the UK’s top circuits, including Oulton Park, Donington Park and Brands Hatch. A second visit to Silverstone later in the year ensures the venue remains central to the title fight.
Importantly, GB4 continues to provide a clear pathway for young drivers aiming to climb the motorsport ladder. With a record grid, extended race format and a wealth of emerging talent, the 2026 GB4 season opener promises action from the very first lap. As drivers battle for early advantage, Silverstone is set to deliver an exciting start to the campaign.
