From 2026, the FIA Formula Regional European Championship (FREC) will embrace a decisive evolution with the introduction of the Tatuus T-326, the second generation of Formula Regional cars. Unveiled at the Temple of Speed in Monza, the new single-seater signals a strategic step for both Tatuus Racing and the championship’s organiser, ACI. Moreover, it arrives as a natural successor to the T-318, which since 2019 has propelled rising stars such as Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Gabriel Bortoleto, Isack Hadjar and Franco Colapinto toward the sport’s top tiers. Consequently, the T-326 builds on that legacy with a package that aims to set fresh benchmarks for performance, safety and sustainability.
Because the programme followed an intense and focused development path, the T-326 (subject to FIA homologation) represents a tangible progression for the category. Furthermore, the car underscores the championship’s mission to refine the single-seater ladder and prepare young drivers for international competition through a platform that is faster, safer and more raceable.
Aerodynamics and performance revolution
Developed in full compliance with the latest FIA regulations, the T-326 delivers a comprehensive upgrade in aerodynamics, performance and responsiveness. In practice, the improved chassis architecture and revised suspension system target greater steering precision and cornering balance. Additionally, the aerodynamic concept, informed by trends from top single-seater series, emphasises higher overall downforce and a reduced wake effect; therefore, it should enhance overtaking opportunities and improve racing quality. From 2026, the Championship will also adopt Pirelli as the single tyre supplier, paired with new 15-inch OZ wheels, thereby ensuring technical continuity and uniform performance across the grid.
Power and innovation: The ATM163T engine
At the heart of the T-326 sits the ATM163T engine, developed by Autotecnica Motori and derived from the Toyota G16E unit. Notably, it becomes the first three-cylinder engine in Formula Regional history. Because the project emerged from collaboration with TOM’S, the unit targets a blend of high performance, energy efficiency and reliability. In parallel, the engine aligns with new FIA standards for sustainability, so the technical direction also reflects the sport’s broader environmental objectives.
Safety and ergonomics redefined
Safety remains central to the T-326’s design. Therefore, the next-generation chassis meets the highest FIA safety standards with new-design front and rear crash boxes, anti-intrusion panels and a revised roll-over protection system. Inside the cockpit, engineers optimised the ergonomic configuration for a wider range of drivers; as a result, visibility, comfort and overall confidence should improve, which in turn supports consistency and control during high-load phases.
A network of technical excellence
Because the project leans on deep supplier expertise, the T-326 brings together a network of Italian and international partners. For carbon fibre components, ARS Tech, Giga Composite, Carbonmade and La Compositi contributed, while Breda Racing, Eibach and Andreani supported the suspension system. Meanwhile, PFC Brakes and Tilton supplied braking hardware, and Marelli, Next Solution and Nope Engineering developed on-board electronics. Completing the package are the Sadev SLR-82 gearbox, Sabelt harnesses, OMP safety systems, and components from Galletto and Gieffe. Following an initial testing phase between August and October with professional drivers and test specialists, the T-326 now stands ready to take to the track ahead of its official 2026 debut.
FIA Perspective: Safer, faster, more raceable
Because the car sits at a pivotal rung of the single-seater pyramid, the FIA focused on a balanced blend of speed, safety and racecraft. Moreover, with the European Championship serving as a key pathway for young talent, the governing body framed the T-326 around clear performance and training objectives. In that context, FIA Single-Seater Committee President Emanuele Pirro underlined the programme’s success and its importance for driver development:
“The new Formula Regional car hits all the objectives we have set for this level of single-seater racing. The cars will be safer and more efficient whilst also being faster and more raceable – this is a really amazing achievement thanks to the work of the FIA. I’d also like to thank ACI and Tatuus for their commitment to this next phase for the European Championship – we are making this platform essential for any young racing drivers looking to progress to international competition.”
A series which supports young drivers
Furthermore, as the series transitions to full FIA administration from 2026, the educational value for competitors becomes even more pronounced. Because the car embodies technological, safety and performance gains, FIA Single-Seater Operations and Junior Categories Director François Sicard highlighted how the T-326 advances both the machinery and the structure that supports drivers:
“We are very proud to unveil the second generation FIA Formula Regional car. The Tatuus T-326 represents the evolution of the FR category as we move forward both from a technical point of view, and also in terms of the organisation of the FIA’s single-seater pyramid.
“The combination of technological, safety and performance upgrades demonstrates the innovation that drives motor sport, and as the FIA Formula Regional European Championship becomes a fully FIA-administered competition from 2026, the educational value for the young drivers who will become the stars of the future takes a huge step. We can’t wait to see this car in action on the track very soon.”
ACI view: Consolidating Italy’s leadership
Because Italy hosts world-class motorsport events and manufacturers, ACI views the T-326 as a strategic expression of national capability. Moreover, the 2025 season delivered record Formula 1 attendances in Italy, and the new car further cements that momentum. Framing the reveal as both symbolic and practical, General Tullio Del Sette, Extraordinary Commissioner of ACI, stressed the significance of the programme for ACI’s sporting mission and for Italy’s industrial footprint:
“The presentation of the new Tatuus T-326 is a highly significant event for Italian motorsport, marking another milestone in the organizational achievements of ACI’s Sporting Federation in a year, 2025, that has seen Formula 1 races in Italy reach record attendance figures and receive widespread praise from both F.O.M. and the FIA The latter has officially entrusted ACI with the organization of the new European Formula Regional Championship, for which this single-seater has been specifically designed.
“This project once again demonstrates our country’s ability to deliver outstanding technical and industrial excellence recognized worldwide. The collaboration between Tatuus, Autotecnica Motori, Pirelli and other Italian partners is tangible proof of a system that works and continues to grow. Seeing a championship promoted and organized by ACI Sport adopting a chassis entirely developed and built in Italy is a source of great pride and confidence in the future. With the FIA Formula Regional European Championship, we are entering a new phase of consolidation of Italy’s leadership in motorsport and of ACI’s role on the international stage.”
A durable model for nurturing talent
In addition, Giovanni Battista Tombolato, Deputy Extraordinary Commissioner of ACI, connected the T-326 to the federation’s long-term pathway from F4 to Formula Regional. Because that pathway blends technical standards with cost control and governance, ACI sees a durable model for nurturing talent:
“With the Tatuus T-326, we continue along a path that combines tradition, innovation, and strategic vision. This car embodies the philosophy of Formula Regional: providing young drivers with a top-level technical environment, sustainable costs, and a solid organizational structure behind them. The pathway created by the FIA and deployed by ACI Sport, from Formula 4 to Formula Regional, has become a benchmark on the international scene. The continued collaboration with Tatuus and other Italian suppliers strengthens this virtuous model, which has enabled many young drivers to grow and progress through the ranks, all the way to Formula 1.”
Showcasing the Italian motorsport identity
Likewise, Antonino Geronimo La Russa, President-elect of ACI, emphasised how the project expresses the “Made in Italy” identity while strengthening the championship’s global profile. Because the supply chain features long-standing technical partners, the car functions as both a competitive tool and a national showcase:
“The new Tatuus T-326 perfectly represents the excellence and expertise of Italian motorsport. Its chassis and components are the result of companies that have been working alongside ACI Sport for years, contributing to the development of entire generations of drivers. With the debut of the car, the FIA Formula Regional European Championship renews both its international identity and its strong connection with ‘Made in Italy’ technology. It is a result that fills us with pride and reaffirms ACI’s role as a key institution in nurturing and promoting young talents within our sport.”
Tatuus and ATM: Engineering the future
Because Tatuus and Autotecnica Motori have shaped the category since its inception, the T-326 reflects their combined engineering maturity. Moreover, the new car distils lessons from the T-318 era while embracing fresh aerodynamic philosophies and powertrain concepts. In that light, Giovanni Delfino, CEO of Tatuus and ATM, positioned the T-326 as both a continuity project and a step change:
“Tatuus and ATM have been part of the FIA Formula Regional story since day one. We are proud to continue this journey through a car that reflects our Group’s technical synergy and engineering capabilities, representing a tangible step forward. Just like the T-318 was the launchpad for many world class drivers, we are confident the new Tatuus T-326 will be the training ground for tomorrow’s racing stars.”
Finally, because motorsport thrives on constant reinvention, Gianfranco De Bellis, President of Tatuus, framed the T-326 as the opening chapter of the category’s next cycle. Furthermore, with a robust partner ecosystem in place, the company expects the car to deliver on the track and in driver development:
“Motorsport is a dynamic landscape filled with series and projects that continually revive our passion for innovation. With the T-326, we’re ready to write an exciting new chapter, standing alongside the Formula Regional European Championship, FIA and ACI Sport, and backed by a network of top-tier technical partners who daily support our success.”
A future-ready formula
In summary, the Tatuus T-326 stands as a clear statement of intent for the FIA Formula Regional European Championship. Because it fuses aerodynamic efficiency, innovative powertrain technology and state-of-the-art safety, it addresses key performance and educational goals for young drivers. Moreover, as Italy consolidates its leadership across engineering and event promotion, the T-326 anchors a platform designed to elevate talent toward the sport’s highest levels. When the lights go out in 2026, this new machine will not simply start a race; instead, it will launch a chapter defined by progress, parity and pure competition.
