Hitech confirms 2026 GB3 entry for F3 driver Jin Nakamura

https://www.gb-3.net/news/2026/apr/17/hitech-confirms-jin-nakamura-in-gb3-as-part-of-dual-campaign
Photo Credit: Hitech
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Hitech has confirmed that Jin Nakamura, who currently competes in the FIA Formula 3 Championship with the team, will also take on a parallel campaign in the GB3 Championship in 2026. The move forms part of a carefully structured dual programme designed to maximise track time and accelerate the Japanese driver’s development across multiple competitive environments.

By combining two distinct single-seater platforms, Hitech aims to strengthen Nakamura’s racecraft, adaptability, and consistency. Moreover, the arrangement reflects a broader trend in junior motorsport, where drivers increasingly pursue overlapping programmes to gain additional experience during key stages of their careers.

A packed schedule across two championships

Nakamura will contest six non-clashing GB3 rounds alongside his ongoing FIA Formula 3 commitments. As a result, he faces a demanding calendar that will require strong physical preparation and precise logistical planning throughout the season.

His GB3 appearances will be strategically selected to avoid conflict with his Formula 3 programme. Consequently, each additional race weekend will serve as a targeted opportunity to sharpen his skills without compromising his primary championship focus.

Strong start to FIA Formula 3 campaign

The 20-year-old Japanese driver has already shown promising form in the early stages of his 2026 FIA Formula 3 campaign. In Melbourne, he scored his first points of the season in the Feature Race, immediately establishing himself inside the top 10 of the Drivers’ Standings.

This early momentum has reinforced his reputation as a consistent and adaptable competitor. Furthermore, it highlights his ability to deliver results under pressure in one of the most competitive junior categories in global motorsport.

Backed by a diverse racing background

Nakamura brings a wide-ranging motorsport résumé into his dual campaign. As a member of the Toyota Gazoo Racing Driver Challenge Program, he has developed through multiple disciplines, including single-seaters, GT racing, and endurance competition.

Over the past three seasons, he has competed across both Japanese and European championships, building valuable experience in varied racing environments. In addition, his 2025 season marked a significant step forward as he transitioned fully into European single-seater racing.

During that year, he competed in the Formula Regional Middle East Championship, where he secured a race win and an additional podium finish. He also delivered consistent performances in the Formula Regional European Championship, taking a podium and regularly scoring points. Alongside this, he gained endurance experience in the LMP3 category of the Le Mans Cup, further broadening his skill set.

GB3 opportunity to strengthen development

Nakamura will join teammates Deagen Fairclough and Felix Fu in Hitech’s GB3 line-up when the season begins at Silverstone from 23–26 April. The championship will provide him with an additional platform to refine his racecraft on circuits that differ in style and demand from the FIA Formula 3 calendar.

Speaking about the announcement, Nakamura emphasised the importance of maintaining momentum throughout the year while balancing both programmes effectively.

He stated, “I’m very happy to add the GB3 Championship to my 2026 racing programme alongside FIA Formula 3. While FIA F3 remains my priority, the opportunity to maintain racing momentum between those rounds by competing in six GB3 events is really important for my progression. I’m looking forward to a busy season ahead.”

Hitech GB3 Team Manager Phil Blow also welcomed the addition of Nakamura to the squad for selected rounds. He highlighted both the driver’s early-season performance and the benefits of a dual championship programme.

“We’re pleased to welcome Jin to our GB3 Championship line-up for the new season. He has already made a strong start to his FIA Formula 3 campaign, and contesting GB3 will provide him with an excellent platform for development through a dual programme of international and regional competition.”

A demanding but strategic season ahead

As the 2026 season unfolds, Nakamura faces one of the busiest programmes of his career to date. However, the structured combination of FIA Formula 3 and GB3 racing offers a clear pathway for continued development.

Ultimately, the dual campaign positions him to gain experience across different competitive contexts, while Hitech aims to maximise his potential through carefully managed race opportunities throughout the year.