Matteo De Palo says it has been “fun” adapting to the F3 car as his preparations for his 2026 debut season with Trident got underway during post-season testing at Jerez. The Italian teenager, fresh from a stellar Formula Regional European Championship by Alpine (FRECA) campaign, is already making a smooth transition to the next level.
After a season that saw him claim four wins, 11 podiums and second in the championship, De Palo is keen to maintain that momentum in F3. His early running with Trident has already given him valuable insight into the car’s complexity, and he is relishing the challenge of fine-tuning his driving style to suit the increased speed and downforce.
“I’m really excited to join Trident for the 2026 season,” said De Palo. “It’s going to be a big step for me in my career, but I am really looking forward to it.”
De Palo confident and having “fun” as he begins F3 journey
The 18-year-old spoke with a quiet confidence, acknowledging the scale of the step while embracing the opportunity to grow. He knows the jump from regional to international F3 machinery is significant, but the familiar surroundings of Trident have made the process far more comfortable.
“For sure the hopes are high. I think we can do really well together, now it’s all about learning the car. It’s my first time in the car, but we are really confident that we can do a good job together.”
De Palo explained that the learning process has been both intense and rewarding, as he continues to adapt to the car’s aerodynamics, braking performance, and tyre management. He remains enthusiastic about the experience and believes that these early tests will set a strong foundation for his rookie year.
“But so far, it’s been really fun. I was expecting a big step, not this much, but I enjoyed it a lot. Now we will see, I will keep improving, but I am confident that we will do a good job in these tests.”
Confidence in Trident’s winning pedigree
Remaining with Trident for a second consecutive year has given De Palo a vital sense of stability. He’s fully aware of the team’s winning credentials, with Trident securing the 2025 F3 Drivers’ Championship through Rafael Câmara and finishing second in the Teams’ Standings.
That success reinforces his belief that he’s in the right environment to continue developing and fighting for top results. His focus is clear: to learn, execute, and perform from the very first race weekend.
“When you jump in the car and everything is certain, it’s really good for your mental condition,” said De Palo. “You know that it is all about you, and that you it is left to you to do the job.”
For De Palo, that stability means fewer distractions and more time to focus purely on performance. With the structure already in place, he can push his limits confidently, knowing that both the car and the team around him can deliver results.
“With Noah [Strømsted], for sure I have to learn a lot from him, because he already did a year with this car in the Championship. So for sure I will use him like a tool to improve myself before the start of the season. But for sure I am aiming to be the best driver at TRIDENT.”
His relationship with teammate Noah Strømsted will be an important one. Strømsted’s prior experience gives De Palo a valuable point of reference, while the Italian’s natural speed and adaptability could see the pair elevate each other’s performances.
From rivals to teammates: A new dynamic
De Palo will also share the Trident garage with Freddie Slater — the driver who narrowly beat him to the FRECA title earlier this year. The two fought tooth and nail across multiple rounds, and now find themselves working side by side for the same team.
“At the end of the day, it’s funny but it’s a bit strange. I don’t know how to express this, but it’s not ordinary that you are teammates with the guy you are fighting against in another category.”
While their rivalry defined much of their 2025 season, both drivers are now focused on collaboration and development. Still, the competitive edge remains — something that De Palo believes will only help push them both forward in the high-stakes world of F3.
Eyes forward: Learning, consistency, and winning
Despite his youth, De Palo speaks like a seasoned competitor. He knows consistency and precision will be key if he wants to replicate his FRECA success at F3 level. With Trident’s resources and a winter of preparation ahead, he is already thinking long-term.
“I need to keep learning, and then not make any mistakes,” said De Palo. “If we know that we have the pace, we have everything we need to do well. So there are no excessive pressures, just do your job, and I think it will come.”
That calm, measured approach is typical of De Palo. He understands the importance of patience in such a competitive field but remains ambitious enough to target wins and podiums from the outset.
As he looks ahead to his 2026 F3 rookie season, De Palo embodies the mix of composure and hunger that defines future champions. With proven pace, maturity beyond his years, and the backing of a top team, the Italian’s first F3 campaign with Trident promises to be one to watch.
