Freddie Slater, the 2025 Formula Regional European Championship (FRECA) champion, is the first confirmed driver for the 2026 Castrol Toyota Formula Regional Oceania Trophy (CTFROT). The 17-year-old from Stratford-upon-Avon, UK, will race for the successful M2 Competition team and will contend for the title in the prestigious series
A remarkable career so far
Slater’s racing career has been nothing short of exceptional. Born in Stratford-upon-Avon on 9 August 2008, Slater’s passion for motorsport was nurtured from an early age. Growing up with a father who competed in the Porsche brand, he was introduced to karting at the age of seven and quickly began excelling. Over the course of his karting career, he secured numerous titles, including the Junior World Karting Championship in 2020 and the European Championship in both 2021 and 2023.
His success continued as he dominated the Ginetta Junior Championship in 2023, before transitioning to junior single-seater racing. In 2024, Slater claimed the Italian F4 and F4 UAE titles, making an impressive entry into single-seater racing. He followed this up with a dominant 2025 season, winning the Formula Regional European Championship by Alpine (FRECA) title with Prema Racing, having secured eight victories throughout the season. Slater also impressed in a part-time GB3 campaign, continuing his rise in European motorsport.
A new challenge in New Zealand
Slater’s entry into the 2026 FR Oceania Trophy marks another key step in his development as a driver. “Learning new circuits will keep the season exciting in New Zealand,” he said upon confirming his participation. “The racing will be close with lots of good drivers competing. Hopefully we can put on a good show for the fans worldwide that will be following.”
Looking ahead, Slater is keen to use the New Zealand championship as a platform for both experience and development. “I’m definitely going to use my time in New Zealand for experience and general development as a driver so I can be as prepared as possible for the F3 season I plan to do in 2026.”
Looking ahead to 2026
Freddie Slater’s move to M2 Competition for the 2026 Castrol Toyota FR Oceania Trophy reflects his ongoing ambition and commitment to his racing career. With his extensive experience, incredible success in FR Europe, and track record of victories in various junior series, he will certainly be a contender for the title in New Zealand. Slater’s time in New Zealand will not only help him gain valuable experience but also set the stage for his 2026 Formula 3 campaign, where he will compete with Trident.
