Arden Motorsport is set to return to the GB3 Championship in 2026, with Leon Wilson confirmed as the team’s lead driver. Founded by Christian and Garry Horner in 1997, Arden has built a strong legacy in various high-level racing series, including Formula 3000, FIA Formula 2, and Formula Regional Europe, with its focus always on developing young talent. The team’s deep connections to the Red Bull Junior Team have also made it a key stepping stone for future Formula 1 drivers.
A storied history of success
Arden Motorsport’s journey in motorsport began in the Formula 3000 International Championship, where the team quickly made its mark. Over the years, Arden competed in numerous prestigious series, including the Italian Formula 3000 and A1 GP, representing Great Britain. The team’s success in these early years set the stage for future involvement in top-tier competitions, notably the FIA Formula 2 Championship, where they showcased their expertise at the highest level.
Arden has a rich history in the GB3 Championship, formerly known as the British Formula 3 Championship, where the team achieved consistent success. Their return to GB3 in 2026 signals a bold new chapter as they aim to challenge for wins and championships once again.
A launchpad for F1 talent
One of Arden Motorsport’s standout features has been its role in developing future Formula 1 stars. The team closely links with the Red Bull Junior Team, nurturing many drivers who later make the leap to the F1 grid. Among the names to have passed through Arden’s ranks are Michael Ammermüller, Neel Jani, Sébastien Buemi, Daniil Kvyat, Carlos Sainz Jr., Dan Ticktum, Jack Doohan, and Dennis Hauger.
These drivers benefitted from Arden’s experience, both on and off the track, as they transitioned from junior categories to the highest level of motorsport. This track record underscores Arden’s role as one of the premier teams in driver development, with a clear focus on guiding young talent through the ranks and into Formula 1.
Leon Wilson: A promising talent for 2026
The promotion of Leon Wilson, a double race winner in the GB4 Championship underscores Arden’s decision to return to GB3 in 2026. Wilson, who first joined Arden in 2024, has shown significant growth over the past two seasons. In 2025, he secured victories at both Snetterton and Donington Park, highlighting his ability to compete at the front. His progression was evident, as he finished seventh in the final GB4 standings—an impressive leap from his first season.
Following tests in the GB3 car at Anglesey and Snetterton, Wilson is now fully committed to making the step up to GB3. “I’m massively excited to be stepping up to GB3 next season with Arden Motorsport,” Wilson said. “This team has been such an important part of my career development, and I’m looking forward to more seat time over the next few months.”
In addition to Wilson’s promotion, Arden is expanding its driver development programme, with several promising young talents joining the team for winter testing. This expansion is a clear signal of Arden’s commitment to continuing its legacy of developing future F1 stars. The team plans to add more drivers to their GB3 and GB4 line-ups in the coming months as they prepare for the 2026 season.
A strong future ahead
Arden’s return to GB3, led by Leon Wilson, is a significant milestone for the team as they continue to build on their long-standing reputation for excellence in driver development.
Team Principal Garry Horner expressed his enthusiasm about the team’s future, saying, “We’re very pleased to be stepping back up to GB3 next year, and to confirm Leon as our first driver. We’ve had a lot of success in various iterations of GB3 previously, and we’ll be doing everything we can to ensure this continues when we return in 2026.”
As Leon Wilson prepares for the challenges of GB3, his continued development under the guidance of Arden Motorsport will be one to watch in 2026. With a proven track record and a clear vision for the future, Arden Motorsport’s return to GB3 marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in the team’s illustrious history.
