Hitech TGR has confirmed 19 year-old Japanese driver Jin Nakamura as the team’s first signing for the 2026 FIA F3 season. Currently competing in the Formula Regional European Championship by Alpine (FRECA), Nakamura sits 11th in the Drivers’ Standings with 64 points. The Japanese driver will step up to F3 for his rookie campaign next year, joining fellow FRECA graduates such as Matteo De Palo and Freddie in making the next move up the single-seater ladder.
Experience spans across various categories
Unlike many of his fellow competitors, Nakamura boasts a diverse racing background that spans from GT cars to Endurance and single-seaters. He made his single-seater debut in 2022, contesting in the Japanese F4 Championship for two seasons. In 2024, he stepped up to Super Formula Lights while also competing in Super GT’s GT300 class. That same year, he clinched the title in the Super Taikyu’s ST-2 class with KTMS. Rounding out a packed and busy year for him, Nakamura also took part in the prestigious Macau Grand Prix with TOM’s Formula, though his run ended in retirement.
Starting off his 2025, Nakamura began the year by racing in the Formula Regional Middle East Championship with R-ace GP, finishing 10th overall with 94 points, a win and an additional podium. Staying with the team, the 19 year-old stepped up to FRECA this season, where he has already secured one podium finish. Furthermore, Nakamura has made appearances in the Le Mans Cup’s LMP3 class this year.
Taking the next step up with Hitech
The Japanese driver will take the next step up the European single-seater ladder as he joins Hitech for the first time. Demonstrating versatility and potential across a range of categories, Nakamura shared his excitement about his new partnership with the team and beginning preparations for his rookie F3 campaign in 2026.
“I am very proud to be joining Hitech for the 2026 FIA Formula 3 season. It has been a dream to race in this championship. I am grateful to the team for their trust, and to Toyota Gazoo Racing, who have supported me throughout my racing journey, I have learned so much competing in Japan and Europe, and I feel well prepared to take on this next challenge. I can’t wait to get started in testing and prepare for a strong debut next year.”
Additionally, Hitech’s F3 Team Manager, Paul Bellringer, welcomed Nakamura to the team and praised the Japanese driver’s potential as he prepares for his rookie campaign.
Bellringer added: “We’re excited to welcome Jin to the team for 2026. He has established himself as a very versatile driver, adapting well to different categories of racing, and I’m sure that will continue as he steps up to FIA Formula 3. His performances in FRECA and FRMEC have shown strong potential, with consistent podiums and points finishes underlining his clear development. We look forward to working closely with him and helping him maximise his potential as he takes this next step in his career.”
