For young drivers in junior formulae, Formula 1 remains the ultimate aspiration. Yet the path to F1 is rarely straightforward, and many drivers explore opportunities across multiple racing series. Ivan Domingues, competing in the 2025 F3 Championship with Van Amersfoort Racing, balances this ambition with realism. In an exclusive interview with Pit Debrief, he discussed his career goals, the realities of professional racing, and the circuits that excite him most.
F1: The ultimate goal
For Domingues, currently competing in the 2025 F3 Championship, the dream of reaching Formula 1 remains a central driving force, motivating him throughout his racing career. He recognises that F1 represents the pinnacle of motorsport, combining cutting-edge technology, global visibility, and the highest level of competition. Yet he also understands that the road to F1 is not straightforward. Motorsport is intensely competitive, and even the most talented drivers face obstacles such as limited seats, financial considerations, and timing. Domingues approaches this challenge with a blend of ambition and pragmatism, focusing on growth while keeping his ultimate goal in sight.
“Yeah, of course the dream and the goal is to arrive to Formula 1,” he said when asked about his ambitions for the future.
Building a career beyond raw pace
At the same time, he is aware that success in motorsport requires more than raw speed. While talent and quick lap times are essential, building a sustainable career demands discipline, consistency, and strategic decision-making. It also involves technical understanding, effective communication with engineers, and resilience in the face of setbacks. Domingues emphasised that establishing himself as a professional driver capable of making a living in racing is a key priority.
“Another goal that I think most of us have is to establish ourselves as professional drivers and make a living out of this and we all know that arriving to Formula 1 is not all down to just being fast and winning races.”
Adaptability and alternative paths
While F1 remains his ultimate aim, Domingues maintains a realistic perspective. He is open to alternative categories such as Formula E, IndyCar, or endurance racing, which can offer professional careers with technical challenges and global recognition. By remaining adaptable, he ensures that every step contributes to his growth as a driver.
“So yeah, of course the goal is to arrive there. If it doesn’t happen for various reasons, of course, we will have to go to somewhere else in racing.”
Anticipation for iconic circuits
Drivers often measure their seasons not just by results, but by the circuits they get to experience. Domingues highlighted his excitement for Monaco, describing the opportunity to race on the legendary street circuit as a dream.
“Yeah, also for me, I was looking forward to driving Monaco. I think it’s a dream of every racing driver to drive a Formula 1 in the streets of Monaco.”
Imola, another historic European track, also stands out. While his experience there in 2025 did not go perfectly, he still values its technical challenges.
“I was also looking forward to driving Imola, it’s a track that I enjoy a lot. I mean, it didn’t go very well, but it happens.”
Looking ahead, Domingues would like to see F3 compete at Abu Dhabi, a track he raced at in the 2022 Formula 4 UAE Championship. He emphasised that most drivers enjoy its combination of technical corners and long straights.
“And maybe a track that I would like F3 to participate in maybe was Abu Dhabi. I think it’s a very, very cool track. I’ve driven there. I think most of the drivers enjoy driving there and yeah, I would like to drive there.”
Balancing ambition with pragmatism
As the 2025 F3 season continues, Domingues remains focused on learning, refining his racecraft, and gaining experience. Each track, present or future, is an opportunity to progress toward his ultimate goal. By balancing ambition with pragmatism, and by embracing both competition and iconic circuits, he exemplifies the mindset required to succeed in a highly competitive and unpredictable sport.
