Finnish racing driver Tuukka Taponen will continue his rise through the junior single-seater ranks in 2026, remaining in the FIA F3 Championship but making a strategic switch to MP Motorsport. The 18-year-old, a member of the highly regarded Ferrari Driver Academy, joins the Dutch outfit after an impressive rookie campaign with ART Grand Prix in 2025.
Taponen, who secured three podium finishes, ended the season ninth in the drivers’ standings—a notable result in one of the most competitive series in global motorsport. As a result, his move to MP Motorsport signals a clear intent to build on that momentum. Now, with a year of experience under his belt and the backing of a top team, Taponen will be aiming to challenge for wins and possibly the title.
Taponen please to join “one of the leading teams”
Following the announcement, Taponen expressed his excitement about joining MP Motorsport and getting clarity about his future ahead of the off-season.
“I’m really pleased to join MP Motorsport for my second year in Formula 3. It’s wonderful news to have confirmation of my immediate future so early. It means that I have a productive winter with the team and the Scuderia Ferrari Driver Academy ahead of me, as we work together on the best possible preparation for the 2026 season.”
Moreover, Taponen acknowledged MP’s strong performance during the previous campaign, where they finished third in the Teams’ standings.
“MP is one of the leading teams in the championship, and I look forward to becoming part of their family and adding to their success.”
MP Motorsport welcomes a former rival
Meanwhile, MP Motorsport’s Team Principal, Sander Dorsman, shared his enthusiasm about Taponen’s arrival.
“Ever since his promotion from karts, Tuukka’s quick rise through the ranks has been remarkable. He has been one of our fiercest rivals in the past two years, so having him on our side for 2026 is absolutely great news.”
With Taponen joining a line-up that already features fellow talents Mattia and Alessandro, MP Motorsport is expected to field one of the most exciting young squads on the 2026 F3 grid.
From karting sensation to F3 contender
Taponen’s journey to F3 has been both rapid and impressive. Starting with karting in his native Finland, he quickly established himself as a dominant force, winning multiple national titles. In fact, he went on to claim the CIK-FIA Karting World Championship in 2021—one of the most prestigious accolades in the sport.
Afterwards, he transitioned into single-seaters with ease. In 2023, he finished runner-up in the F4 UAE Championship, and the following year, he captured the Formula Regional Middle East Championship title. Later in 2024, he also placed third in the Formula Regional European Championship, proving his consistency across multiple series.
Subsequently, Taponen joined the Ferrari Driver Academy, further elevating his profile. Then, in 2025, he completed a full season in F3 with ART Grand Prix. His performances—highlighted by three podiums—showcased his maturity and adaptability, particularly against some of the most experienced drivers in the field.
Looking ahead, the 2026 F3 season presents a golden opportunity for Taponen to solidify his status as one of motorsport’s future stars. With the combination of experience, team support, and FDA backing, he is well-positioned to challenge at the front of the grid.
