The 2026 Formula Regional Americas Championship (FRAC) season roars into life this weekend at NOLA Motorsports Park, as part of the fifth annual Racing America at NOLA event.
Alongside Formula 4 United States Championship and the Ligier Junior Formula Championship, the top tier of Racing America’s Formula Ladder launches a new campaign filled with opportunity. With scholarships and career progression on the line, drivers from across the globe arrive aiming to establish early momentum in what promises to be a wide-open championship. Moreover, the event forms part of a packed weekend featuring Sportscar Vintage Racing Association and Optima’s Ultimate Street Car, ensuring a festival atmosphere both on and off track.
NOLA Motorsports Park to host 2026 FRAC season opener
The 2.75-mile, 16-turn circuit provides a technical and demanding test for drivers at the very start of the season. Run clockwise, the layout combines flowing sections with heavy braking zones, rewarding precision and consistency.
Notably, the podium sits on the backside of the grandstand near the control tower, offering a prime viewing point for fans across the venue.
Weekend schedule
Track action begins early, with a full programme of sessions spread across three days:
Friday, April 10
- Practice: 8:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. CT
- Qualifying: 2:35 p.m. CT
Saturday, April 11
- Feature Race 1: 8:00 a.m. CT
- Fan Walk: 12:05 p.m. CT
- Feature Race 2: 12:50 p.m. CT
Sunday, April 12
- Feature Race 3: 9:10 a.m. CT
Importantly, the Saturday Fan Walk offers spectators a rare opportunity to step onto pit lane, meet drivers and collect autographs just minutes before Race 2 begins.
A new era for Racing America
The 2026 season marks a significant evolution for the series under Racing America. With continued backing from key partners such as Ligier Automotive, Hankook Motorsports and Mountune USA, the championship maintains strong technical stability.
Ligier continues as the official chassis supplier, with the Ligier JS F3 forming the backbone of FR Americas competition. Meanwhile, Mountune powers the field, and Hankook provides tyres across all categories. Together, these partners underpin not only performance but also the scholarship system that drives progression through the ladder.
Drivers to watch at the 2026 FRAC season opener at NOLA
With no reigning front-runners returning, the spotlight falls on a mix of experienced competitors and ambitious newcomers.
Returning contenders
Several drivers return with unfinished business, determined to capitalise on their experience:
- Brady Golan – The only returning race winner, Golan enters as a leading title contender after two victories last season.
- Barrett Wolfe – A podium finisher in 2025, Wolfe aims to convert promise into consistency.
- Jake Pollack – Showed front-running pace last year, including a second-place finish at New Jersey.
- James Lawley – Closed last season strongly and now targets his first podium.
- Kevin Janzen – A Masters specialist with unmatched experience in the series.
- Anthony Autiello – The defending Masters Cup champion returns to defend his crown.
Rising talent from the ladder
Equally compelling is the influx of drivers stepping up from junior categories:
- Cooper Shipman – The reigning F4 U.S. champion arrives with significant backing through the scholarship programme.
- Harbir Dass – A consistent performer in the Ligier Junior Formula Championship, now stepping up.
- Kekai Hauanio – One of the most consistent drivers from F4 U.S. last season.
- Luke Powers – Continues his progression up the ladder after a partial F4 campaign.
- Eric Wiśniewski – Returns to the ladder with Hillenburg Motorsports.
- Jonathan Cottrill – Embarks on his first full national single-seater season.
Key storylines ahead of lights out
Shipman’s scholarship opportunity
Shipman’s move to FRAC comes via a fully funded scholarship, including chassis, engine, tyres and race entries. Therefore, expectations remain high as he transitions to the top step of the ladder.
Crosslink’s IndyCar connection
Crosslink Motorsports strengthens its programme through a new partnership with AJ Foyt Racing. Consequently, drivers gain valuable exposure to the IndyCar environment, enhancing development opportunities.
Kiwi’s Ganassi link
Meanwhile, Kiwi Motorsport continues its collaboration with Chip Ganassi Racing, providing drivers access to elite training resources and paddock integration.
Masters battle intensifies
The Masters category adds another layer of competition. Whitney Strickland joins the grid, setting up a season-long fight with Autiello and Janzen.
Drivers racing for a cause
Additionally, Aidan Schuh and Autiello bring meaningful causes to the grid, supporting Homes For Our Troops and Hope For The Warriors respectively, raising awareness throughout the season.
A festival atmosphere
Beyond the racing, the event offers a family-friendly experience. With open paddocks, a car show and free entry for children under 12, fans can engage closely with the sport.
A crucial opening weekend
Ultimately, the NOLA opener sets the tone for the 2026 season. With three races on the schedule, drivers have an immediate opportunity to build momentum—or fall behind.
Therefore, as the lights go out for Race 1, the championship begins not only a new season but also a new chapter. With fresh talent, evolving teams and a clear pathway to higher categories, the battle for the FR Americas title starts here.
