Keanu Al Azhari will step up to the FIA Formula 3 (F3) Championship in 2027 with Hitech, continuing his progression through the British outfit’s junior single-seater programme.
The 18-year-old Emirati has raced with Hitech across multiple seasons, building his experience through GB3 and Eurocup-3 before securing his graduation to the FIA Formula 3 Championship.
Al Azhari enjoyed a strong 2025 GB3 campaign with Hitech, claiming one race victory, six podium finishes and three pole positions.
He continued his relationship with the team this year, competing in both the Eurocup-3 Spanish Winter Championship and the Eurocup-3 series.
The Emirati driver made an immediate impact in the Spanish Winter Championship, taking two victories and seven podium finishes on his way to the title.
His Eurocup-3 campaign has also delivered a race win, with Al Azhari currently sitting third in the standings with two rounds remaining.
His move into FIA Formula 3 will also mark a significant milestone, as Al Azhari becomes the first driver from the United Arab Emirates to compete in the championship.
Al Azhari said he was proud to represent the UAE as he prepares to take the next step of his career with Hitech, racing in F3 in 2027.
“I am proud and honoured to continue my journey with my family at Hitech as we step up together into the 2027 FIA Formula 3 Championship.
“To become the first driver from the UAE to compete in FIA Formula 3 is a milestone I carry with immense pride. Representing my nation at this level is the greatest honour, and I’m humbled by the support of the UAE behind me.
“I hope this journey inspires the next generation of drivers across our region to dream without limits.”
Stepping up to F3 in 2027
Hitech FIA F3 Team Manager Paul Bellringer highlighted Al Azhari’s ability to progress through the field as one of his key strengths, while also pointing to the development he has made during his time with the team.
“It’s great to see Keanu making the step into FIA Formula 3 with us. We’ve worked closely with him over the last two seasons and have seen first-hand how much he has developed in that time.
“He has shown his speed with race wins and podiums, but one of his real strengths is his ability to race his way through the field. Even when a weekend hasn’t gone to plan or conditions are difficult, he finds a way to move forward and put himself in contention. That ability to make something out of challenging situations will serve him well in Formula 3.
“There’s something particularly rewarding about seeing a driver progress through the different levels of Hitech and reach F3 with us. Keanu knows how we work, we know what he is capable of, and we’re looking forward to continuing that progression together in 2027.”
Al Azhari will now prepare for his first season in FIA Formula 3, where he will continue his development with Hitech against an international field.
