The Formula Regional Middle East Trophy (FRME) teams will take delivery of the highly anticipated Tatuus T-326, the latest generation of Formula Regional cars, ahead of the 2026 season. This groundbreaking car, set to make its debut at Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi next month, promises to revolutionise the category with its enhanced performance, aerodynamics, and safety features.
A major step forward in performance
Firstly, the Tatuus T-326 marks a significant leap forward from its predecessor, the T-318. Developed by Tatuus Racing, the new car boasts advanced chassis architecture, a revised suspension system, and improved steering precision. As a result, the T-326 offers greater stability and responsiveness, ensuring drivers can push the limits of speed with more confidence.
Additionally, the car features cutting-edge aerodynamic enhancements. The new design increases downforce while reducing the wake effect, allowing for better overtaking opportunities and improving the overall quality of racing. These improvements will help elevate the spectacle of Formula Regional racing, particularly in the Middle East.
The T-326 uses the revolutionary ATM163T engine, a three-cylinder power unit developed by ATM-Autotecnica Motori in collaboration with TOM’S. It is the first three-cylinder engine in Formula Regional history, derived from the Toyota G16E unit. This engine offers an exciting blend of high performance, energy efficiency, and reliability, further enhancing the competitiveness of the series.
As teams receive the engines, anticipation grows about how the new power unit will impact the racing dynamics. Notably, the engine’s efficient design will also contribute to sustainability, an increasingly important consideration in motorsport.
Advanced safety and driver comfort
In terms of safety, the T-326 continues to meet and exceed the latest FIA standards. The car features newly designed crash boxes, anti-intrusion panels, and an updated roll-over protection system. These features enhance the protection of drivers, ensuring that they can race with confidence in a secure environment.
Furthermore, the T-326 refines its ergonomic cockpit design to accommodate a wider range of driver physiques. This change aims to make the series more inclusive and accessible, attracting a more diverse array of drivers to the competition.
Excitement builds for the 2026 season
Looking ahead, the 2026 Formula Regional Middle East season will commence on January 16 at Yas Marina Circuit and run until February 13 at Lusail International Circuit in Qatar. With the new Tatuus T-326 set to make its mark, the season promises to offer thrilling racing and showcase the car’s impressive capabilities.
According to Davide de Gobbi, General Manager of FRME promoter Top Speed, “Formula Regional Middle East is proud to be the first series in the world to debut the new Tatuus T-326. The motorsport spotlight once again shines upon the Middle East, and our superb international line-up of teams and drivers can be relied upon to brilliantly showcase the capabilities of this exciting and innovative new race car.”
As the excitement builds, the Tatuus T-326 is poised to set a new standard for Formula Regional racing and provide a platform for the next generation of motorsport stars.
