FIA Formula 4 race winner Ricardo Baptista, better known in the motorsport world as Cadi, has been confirmed for the 2026 Castrol Toyota Formula Regional Oceania Trophy (CTFROT). The Brazilian driver, 18, will race with TJ Speed in partnership with HMD Motorsport, as the four-round championship prepares to kick off at Hampton Downs International Motorsport Park in New Zealand in just under three weeks.
Baptista, a talented young driver from São Paulo, will join an exceptional grid for the championship, which features race and championship-winning drivers from F2, F3, F4, and Formula Regional, alongside two-time world rally champion Kalle Rovanperä. The addition of Baptista brings another exciting prospect to a line-up already brimming with talent.
A rapidly rising star
Although Baptista began his motorsport career later than many, starting karting at the age of 15, his rise has been rapid. Inspired by watching his father race in GT competitions, Baptista soon transitioned into competitive racing. A former Brazilian karting champion, Baptista went on to impress in his early open-wheel career, culminating in a solid 2025 season in Brazilian Formula 4. There, he secured one victory and multiple podium finishes, ultimately finishing 11th overall.
In addition to his Brazilian F4 achievements, Baptista made notable appearances in the Spanish Formula 4 Championship and the Formula Winter Series earlier this year, further honing his skills.
An exciting new challenge in New Zealand
The 2026 CTFROT presents a new challenge for Baptista, one he is eager to embrace. Known for its prestigious history and as a stepping stone for drivers such as Lando Norris, Liam Lawson, Yuki Tsunoda, and Franco Colapinto, the CTFROT is an exciting opportunity for Baptista to test himself against some of the brightest young talents in motorsport.
“I am really looking forward to driving in New Zealand and to experience racing outside of Brazil and Europe for the first time,” Baptista shared. His enthusiasm for the opportunity is clear, as he looks to gain valuable experience and further his career on the global stage.
For Baptista, the goal for his first season in the CTFROT is clear: he wants to score points and learn as much as possible. “I want to score points in the races and learn as much as I can, it’s going to be a great experience and hopefully will set me up for a strong 2026 season in the northern hemisphere,” he explained.
The Brazilian driver’s focus on growth and preparation for the upcoming racing season is reflected in his dedication to making the most of the championship. With his experience and ambition, Baptista is sure to make a significant impact in New Zealand.
As Baptista prepares for his debut in the 2026 CTFROT, all eyes will be on the young Brazilian as he seeks to showcase his talent on a new continent. The championship promises to be an exciting and challenging step in Baptista’s rapidly advancing career, and his performance in the four-round series could set the stage for future success in the northern hemisphere.
