R-ace GP has confirmed Emanuele Olivieri as its driver for the final two rounds of the 2026 Formula Regional Middle East (FRME) Trophy, marking the Italian’s first appearance at Formula Regional level. The 17-year-old will replace Gerrard Xie, who will contest the opening two rounds of the season. The move represents the next step in Olivieri’s rapid progression through the junior single-seater ranks and rewards a standout winter campaign in Formula 4.
From F4 champion to Formula Regional debut
Olivieri arrives in Formula Regional as the reigning F4 Middle East champion, having dominated the 2025 season with R-ace GP. He combined outright pace with racecraft and consistency, sealing the title with a round to spare and establishing himself as one of the most convincing performers of the winter.
Alongside his Middle East success, Olivieri finished seventh in the 2025 Italian F4 Championship, adding European credibility to his résumé and strengthening his case for promotion.
A familiar environment with R-ace GP
Crucially, Olivieri will make his Formula Regional debut with a team he already knows well. R-ace GP guided him to his F4 Middle East title and has played a central role in his development over the past year. Thus, that continuity should ease the transition to the Tatuus T-326, which makes its global race debut in the Middle East this season. With limited running across the final two rounds, familiarity with team processes and engineering personnel could prove decisive.
A pedigree shaped by karting and mentorship
Born on 2 August 2008 in Canelli, Olivieri built his foundations through an accomplished karting career. He claimed multiple podium finishes in WSK competition and secured the Andrea Margutti Trophy, while also winning the WSK Final Cup during his junior years.
He later impressed at both the Ferrari Driver Academy scout camp and the Richard Mille Young Talent Academy shootout, further underlining his potential. Olivieri also benefits from close mentorship, as the godson of three-time Le Mans 24 Hours winner Rinaldo Capello.
In addition, he operates under Oliver Victor Kristensen’s 5P Agency, which continues to manage his career trajectory.
What Oliveri means for the 2026 FRME grid
Olivieri will contest Rounds 3 and 4 of FRME, which take place at the Dubai Autodrome and Lusail International Circuit respectively. The late-season entry gives him valuable mileage in a higher-powered car while allowing R-ace GP to evaluate his readiness for a full Formula Regional campaign. Meanwhile, the move adds another proven race winner to an already competitive grid and reinforces the championship’s status as a launchpad for rising talent.
