Australian rising star Dante Vinci has been confirmed as Hillspeed’s first driver signing for the 2026 GB3 Championship. The 17-year-old’s move into GB3 follows a successful winter testing programme with the team, where he impressed across a variety of tracks in the UK and Europe. With his sights now firmly set on next season, Vinci is ready to take the next step in his racing career.
A promising winter testing programme
Vinci’s winter testing outings have left a strong impression on both his new team and the wider motorsport community. He completed successful test runs at notable circuits, including Silverstone and Snetterton in the UK, as well as Spa-Francorchamps in Belgium, Austria’s Red Bull Ring, and Spain’s Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. These sessions allowed the Sydney native to gain valuable experience in the current GB3 machinery, and Vinci has quickly adapted to the car’s demands. His performances have made him a standout driver ahead of his GB3 debut in 2026.
From karting to cars
Vinci’s journey to single-seater racing began in 2017, when he entered the world of karting at just 12 years old. Initially competing in the KA2 Australian Kart Championship and later in the KA4 Junior category, he rapidly gained recognition for his talent on the track. In 2023, Vinci took his career to the global stage, racing in the OK class of the FIA Karting World Championship and the WSK Champions Cup, further establishing himself as a promising young talent.
In 2024, Vinci made his car-racing debut at the season finale of the Italian F4 Championship. He then followed that up with a strong Formula Winter Series campaign in 2025, where he finished as the fourth-highest rookie. This marked the beginning of what would be an impressive rise in car racing as he then competed in both the Italian F4 and Euro F4 Championships. In the Italian F4 series, he finished sixth in the Rookie standings, securing six podiums, including second-place finishes at Monza and Mugello. Additionally, he recorded his best overall result of sixth at Monza. In the Euro 4 Championship, Vinci finished fourth in the Rookie standings, with three second-place finishes, and claimed a best overall result of fifth. He ended the season 11th in the overall Euro 4 standings, further highlighting his consistency and potential.
Looking ahead to 2026
Reflecting on his progress, Vinci expressed his excitement for the 2026 GB3 season: “I’m happy to announce I’ll be competing in the GB3 Championship with Hillspeed in 2026. Winter testing has been super strong, getting to know several new tracks, and I’m ready for this championship to be my next opportunity to fight. I’m looking forward to a successful, and fun, season and I’m beyond grateful to share that with Hillspeed.”
Hillspeed Team Principal Richard Ollerenshaw shared his excitement about signing Vinci. “We are absolutely delighted to have signed Dante to race with Hillspeed in GB3 next year, it’s especially pleasing to complete the deal this side of Christmas. Our winter testing programme with him has been incredibly successful, we’ve been impressed with the way Dante has adapted to the current GB3 car and have high hopes for his maiden campaign in GB3. With a great family behind him, coupled with the support and driver development the team provides, we can’t wait for the new season.”
As Dante Vinci gears up for his GB3 debut, his strong foundation in karting and impressive progress in car racing give him a solid platform for success. With Hillspeed’s guidance and his growing experience, the young Australian is ready to make an impact in the 2026 GB3 Championship. Fans can expect a thrilling season as Vinci takes the next step in his motorsport career.
