Nikita Bedrin, Deagen Fairclough and Maxim Rehm emerged as the standout performers following an intense opening Qualifying session of the 2026 GB3 season at the Silverstone Circuit.
Building on strong pace shown in testing, Bedrin converted momentum into a dominant double pole position. Meanwhile, Fairclough and Rehm positioned themselves as immediate challengers, setting up an intriguing battle for the races ahead.
Bedrin delivers on expectations to secure double pole in 2026 GB3 Qualifying at Silverstone
Having secured a commanding double pole, Bedrin reflected on a Qualifying performance that combined confidence, execution and continuity from earlier sessions while speaking to GB3. He emphasised how the team carried momentum from testing into the competitive environment, allowing him to approach both sessions with clarity and control.
“It’s a really good start. We found great pace from yesterday already and we carried on with the momentum today.
He continued, “We couldn’t really ask for more. We were pole by more than two tenths, so even had some margin. The car feels good, we can still improve a little bit but honestly we are already in a really good point, so just looking forward to the races now.”
Additionally, Bedrin acknowledged that expectations had already risen following strong practice performances.
“We were expecting a pole because yesterday was quite quick in the last practice. Honestly, the first quali I poled it by a really good lap. I didn’t feel like I had it in me, but I pulled it out. The pace was stronger yesterday but we are in a really good position and were definitely aiming for pole and we got it!”
Moreover, he highlighted the rarity of executing two near-perfect laps across separate sessions. This consistency ultimately proved decisive in securing both pole positions.
“It was a really good lap. To be honest, both quali sessions were really good laps so I’m really happy with that, that doesn’t really happen often that you put more or less everything together. I’m really loving this car to be honest. The last few years I’ve been driving FRECA and other stuff and I’m really loving this much more than any other car.”
Fairclough reflects on missed opportunities
Despite securing a strong overall position, Deagen Fairclough approached the outcome with a degree of frustration. He identified tyre management and timing as critical factors that prevented him from fully capitalising on his pace, particularly in Qualifying 1.
“A bit of an unfortunate one. I missed the peak of the tyre in Q1 and then driving just wasn’t too great on the peak in second quali. So, to be up there still is a positive and looking forward to the races.”
Even so, Fairclough maintained a balanced perspective. He recognised that remaining competitive despite those challenges offered encouragement heading into the races. Furthermore, he stressed the importance of consistency and points accumulation at this early stage of the season.
“We just need to get a good start and it’s early on in the championship, as many points as we can collect in race one will be positive.”
At the same time, Fairclough showed respect for Bedrin’s performance while expressing enthusiasm for the battles ahead. His comments reflected both competitiveness and confidence in his ability to challenge at the front.
“I’m really looking forward to [battling Bedrin]. Good job to Bedrin for two pole positions there and yeah, really looking forward to this weekend.”
Looking ahead, Fairclough will aim to refine execution and maximise opportunities in race conditions. Given the tight margins seen in Qualifying, even small improvements could significantly alter the competitive order during the races.
Rehm eyes race opportunities
For Maxim Rehm, Qualifying delivered a solid foundation rather than outright satisfaction. He consistently remained within the leading group and secured a strong starting position, yet he acknowledged that a small gap to Bedrin still requires attention.
“I think it was quite alright to be honest, P3 is not a bad result. I just need to find out what the gap to Bedrin is because we’re still missing a little bit, but I think the pace will be fine for the race, and we just have to get on with it.
He continued, “I think P3 is a nice way to start from in the race, we have all the chances for the race win so let’s see what I can do.”
Importantly, Rehm shifted focus quickly towards race conditions. He highlighted the challenges posed by aerodynamic turbulence, particularly through Silverstone’s high-speed sections, which could influence overtaking opportunities.
“I think it is going to be pretty nice [to battle with the top two]. You have to watch out for the dirty air in the high-speed corners, but I think if you have a good tow, it’s going to be nice to overtake.”
Additionally, he pointed to tyre management as a decisive factor, especially given the warm weather conditions expected throughout the weekend.
“I think the pace will be fine. I think it will all come down to how other people treat their tyres. It’s quite hot this weekend, so tyre management will be important, but I think we will speak tomorrow evening about that.”
Therefore, while Qualifying placed him slightly behind the outright pace, Rehm remains firmly in contention for race victories.
A battle set to intensify after strong 2026 GB3 Qualifying at Silverstone sees fine margins separate field
The reactions from Bedrin, Fairclough and Rehm collectively paint a clear picture of the competitive landscape following Qualifying. Bedrin enters the races with confidence after executing two standout laps, yet both Fairclough and Rehm have identified clear pathways to challenge him.
Moreover, the tight margins across the field suggest that the advantage gained in Qualifying may not guarantee race success. Instead, factors such as tyre preservation, race starts and strategic awareness will likely play decisive roles.
At the same time, each driver approaches the races with a distinct mindset. Bedrin aims to convert pole into victories, Fairclough seeks to maximise points despite earlier frustrations, and Rehm focuses on capitalising on race pace and opportunities.
Consequently, the stage is set for a highly competitive opening to the GB3 season. While Bedrin holds the early advantage, the determination and confidence shown by his closest rivals ensure that the fight at the front will remain intense and unpredictable.
