Hillspeed has confirmed American racer Connor Willis as its second driver for the 2026 GB4 Championship. As a result, the 18-year-old takes the next step in his career, moving up from Formula Ford into the world of slicks-and-wings racing.
Following the earlier signing of Demitri Nolan, Hillspeed continues to build a promising line-up for what is expected to be a fiercely competitive season.
Strong foundation in Formula Ford
Willis impressed during his rookie Formula Ford campaign in the United Formula Ford Championship, where he finished seventh overall. Importantly, he also delivered standout performances at two of the category’s most prestigious events.
At the Formula Ford Festival at Brands Hatch Indy Circuit, he secured a podium finish in his heat and progressed to the Grand Final, where he finished ninth. Shortly afterwards, he competed in the Walter Hayes Trophy at Silverstone, producing a remarkable drive.
After winning the ‘last chance’ qualification race and setting the fastest lap, Willis surged through the field in the Grand Final, gaining 19 positions to finish 10th overall.
A rapid rise through the ranks
Willis began his motorsport journey in karting in the United States in 2019. He then transitioned into racing Mazda Miatas, where he immediately made an impression by taking pole position and leading every lap to secure victory in his debut race.
Subsequently, he gained single-seater experience in the FRP F1600 Championship in 2023 before moving to the UK. There, he continued to build his reputation through strong performances in Formula Ford competition.
Hillspeed’s winning pedigree
Hillspeed enters the 2026 season with significant momentum. The team mounted a serious title challenge last year, narrowly missing out on the drivers’ championship with Daniel Guinchard in the final race.
Alongside team-mate Leandro Juncos, the squad delivered multiple wins and podium finishes, ultimately securing the position of Team Vice-Champions. This proven track record positions Hillspeed as a strong platform for Willis’s development.
Team principal Richard Ollerenshaw believes Willis has the potential to make an immediate impact in GB4, particularly given his recent progress during testing.
“We’re delighted to have signed Connor as our second confirmed driver for GB4 this season, and we’re confident he is going to make a great impression in his maiden year of slicks and wings. He performed very strongly in the UK last year in Formula Ford, and during the winter testing we’ve been doing he has been making impressive progress.
“The GB4 grid looks to be, quite possibly, its most competitive ever this year – which really is saying something considering the quality of the racing last season – but we have every confidence Connor is going to adapt quickly and deliver some very strong performances.”
A dream opportunity for Willis
Willis views his move to GB4 as a defining moment in his career. He emphasised both his lifelong passion for motorsport and the importance of joining the right team environment.
“I am incredibly proud and excited to confirm that I will be competing in the 2026 GB4 Championship with Hillspeed. Motorsport has been a defining part of my life for as long as I can remember. Before I could even walk I was pretending to drive, imagining myself behind the wheel. Growing up I played a variety of sports and always thrived on competition, but it was not until I discovered racing that I truly found my passion.
“Success in motorsport is never achieved alone; it is built on teamwork, trust, and shared ambition. Finding the right environment is crucial, and Hillspeed has demonstrated exceptional professionalism. I have been truly impressed by the team, and I am confident we will build a strong and successful partnership. I am looking forward to an exciting season ahead and cannot wait to get started.”
As Willis prepares for his GB4 debut, expectations continue to grow. Although the transition to single-seaters presents a new challenge, his rapid development suggests he can adapt quickly.
With Hillspeed’s experience and Willis’s determination, the partnership has the potential to deliver strong performances throughout the 2026 season.
