Dante Vinci approaches the next phase of his career with clear enthusiasm and growing confidence. After completing his progression through Italian Formula 4, Vinci has already immersed himself in GB3 machinery through an intensive winter testing programme with Hillspeed ahead of the 2026 season. Those early laps have played a crucial role in shaping his expectations and sharpening his focus as he prepares for a highly competitive championship.
From his very first outings, Vinci felt an immediate connection with the car and the environment surrounding the series. He openly expressed how quickly that excitement has grown during the winter months.
“I’m, super excited! With the winter testing I did back in Europe, I’ve gotten a feel for the 2025 car and this year’s car is a beast I can’t wait to race with.”
2026 GB3 campaign with Hillspeed the right step at the right time for Vinci
With an entire Italian F4 campaign behind him, Vinci took a measured approach when deciding where to race next. Rather than rushing into the highest available category, he focused on identifying a championship that would support long-term development while still providing a meaningful challenge. For him, GB3 stood out clearly within the single-seater ladder.
“The middle step between F3 and F4 is why GB3 is a great championship for my career in 2026,” he commented
That positioning proved critical as Vinci assessed the wider landscape of junior formula racing. He considered stability, competitiveness and the quality of the grid before committing to his next move.
“Considering uncertainty in other similar categories and GB3’s rising talents, I felt GB3 would be most suitable for not wasting time in such a crucial part of my career, plus, the car’s just so nice to drive.”
His decision gained further validation once winter testing began in earnest. Each session allowed him to unlock more performance while steadily improving his comfort behind the wheel.
“The winter testing back in Europe has helped me settle in, with insane improvements. A big step was made getting used to the car, but now I’m more ready than ever.”
Beyond testing, Vinci also wanted to understand the racing culture within GB3. Attending a race weekend in person gave him valuable insight into the professionalism and standards expected at this level.
“Regarding the races themselves, I attended Monza’s round eight last year since I live close by, and despite being distracted by how good those engines sounded, it was a lot more professional, hard yet clean.”
That experience reinforced his belief that GB3 offers the right environment to learn, compete and progress without compromise.
Working within the Hillspeed environment ahead pf the 2026 GB3 campaign
Alongside his growing confidence in the championship, Vinci has also settled into working with Hillspeed. He joins the team following its strongest season to date and already feels aligned with its methods and ambitions. Through winter testing, he quickly saw how the team’s experience translates into performance on track.
“Hillspeed definitely did great last year, and with the winter tests I’ve done with them I could see why. With Hillspeed’s rich history in racing I’m definitely excited to maintain their series of strong performances and work with some really fun people!”
That positive atmosphere, combined with technical expertise, has allowed Vinci to focus fully on his driving and preparation.
Anticipating new circuits and fresh challenges
Although still early in his career, Vinci has already raced and tested at several well-known European circuits. Testing in the GB3 car has only increased his appreciation for how different tracks bring out unique characteristics of the machinery.
“In 2025 I raced at Barcelona which was also simply lovely in the GB3 car in testing.”
Looking ahead, he feels particularly curious about circuits he has yet to race, especially those known for high-speed battles and strategic racing.
“I’ve never raced at Red Bull Ring, but I think it will be super interesting and entertaining for you guys too, with the three big straights for slipstreaming the entire race. An honourable mention for Silverstone though, I’m really looking forward to the two rounds there.”
Each venue represents another opportunity to grow, adapt and prove himself against a competitive field.
A measured mindset despite rising expectations
Australian drivers have set a high benchmark in GB3 over recent seasons, which inevitably places attention on the next generation. Vinci remains aware of that context, yet he deliberately keeps his focus on preparation rather than prediction.
“I have clear goals in mind, but for now I’ll work in silence and focus on the execution!”
With that mindset, Dante Vinci enters the next chapter of his career intent on letting his driving speak louder than any expectation.
