Van Amersfoort Racing has confirmed that Dion Gowda will remain with the Dutch outfit for its full Formula Regional programme, thereby reinforcing a partnership that delivered an impressive rookie season in 2025. As a result, the Gowda will contest both the Formula Regional Middle East (FRME) Trophy and the newly rebranded Formula Regional European Championship (FREC) with VAR.
Moreover, the announcement signals clear continuity for both driver and team as Formula Regional enters a new technical era in 2026. In that context, Gowda is set to play a central role in VAR’s ambitions across two highly competitive championships.
From Bangalore to Europe’s junior ladder
Born on 30 November 2007 and raised in Bangalore, Gowda began karting at the age of eight before gradually forging his career in Europe. Although he experienced mixed results in international karting, he successfully transitioned to single-seaters in the Formula 4 UAE Championship in 2023. Soon after, he impressed in British Formula 4, where he finished fourth overall with four wins and six podiums.
Building on that momentum, a season with Prema Racing in Italian F4 and Euro 4 in 2024 laid further foundations. Subsequently, his move to Formula Regional with VAR in 2025 marked a significant step forward. Alongside his European campaign, Gowda has also balanced a parallel programme in GB3, further underlining his versatility and work ethic.
Strong rookie season earns vote of confidence
Gowda stepped up to Formula Regional machinery in 2025 and immediately made his mark in his first full season at the level. While competing in the Formula Regional European Championship with VAR, he claimed the Rookie Championship and topped the rookie points classification in 14 of the 20 races. Consequently, that level of consistency underlined his rapid adaptation to the category and, in turn, convinced VAR to retain him for an expanded campaign. This programme now spans winter racing in the Middle East as well as a full European season.
Middle East programme key to 2026 preparation
Looking ahead, Gowda will begin his 2026 campaign in the FRME Trophy, which provides valuable race mileage during the winter months. At the same time, the series will mark his competitive debut with the new Tatuus T-326 chassis, powered by a three-cylinder engine derived from Toyota.
From VAR’s perspective, the FRMET represents a crucial development phase. Accordingly, the team plans to use the opening rounds at Yas Marina, followed by races in Dubai and the Lusail International Circuit in Qatar, to refine its understanding of the new car before the European season begins in April.
European challenge awaits
After the Middle East campaign, attention will shift to Europe, where the FREC will begin on 24–26 April at the Red Bull Ring in Spielberg, Austria. Over the course of the season, the series will visit eight iconic European circuits and run alongside major platforms such as DTM and GT Open, thereby offering Gowda strong exposure and intense competition.
With a full year of Formula Regional experience already behind him, Gowda therefore enters the season targeting regular points finishes and, ultimately, further progression towards the front of the field.
Shared belief in continued progress
Reflecting on the announcement, Gowda expressed confidence in the partnership, citing the solid base established during his rookie season and his belief that further gains will follow in 2026.
“I’m very happy to be sticking with Van Amersfoort Racing for the 2026 Formula Regional campaign. We had a solid first season together and I believe we can continue and improve on that form for 2026.”
Likewise, VAR team principal Brad Joyce echoed that sentiment, praising Gowda’s professionalism, attitude and proven ability in Formula Regional machinery.
“We’re excited to continue working with Dion as he competes with Van Amersfoort Racing in both the Formula Regional Middle East Trophy and the Formula Regional European Championship. In his rookie season with us, he already proved his ability in Formula Regional machinery. Dion is a very professional and respectful driver with a positive attitude, making him a real pleasure to work with. The Middle East rounds will give him the perfect chance to get fully familiar with the new car, helping both him and the team head into the European Championship ready to fight for strong points.”
Ultimately, as Formula Regional embarks on a new chapter, VAR and Gowda enter 2026 aligned in their objective: to convert experience and continuity into strong results across two championships.
