Josh McLean will remain with Pace Performance for the 2026 GB4 Championship, continuing his progression into single-seater racing after a full rookie season in 2025. The British driver now prepares to build on a year of learning with greater consistency and ambition.
McLean joined GB4 after limited prior car racing experience, having contested just three events in the Ginetta GT Championship at Donington Park, where he achieved a best finish of sixth. As a result, he entered single-seaters with a steep learning curve ahead of him.
Steady progress marks rookie season
McLean adapted to GB4 machinery over the course of his first season in 2025. While he began the year with limited experience compared to many of his rivals, he gradually improved as the campaign developed.
He achieved a best qualifying result of ninth at Silverstone, which highlighted his growing pace over a single lap. In addition, he delivered his strongest race performance at Oulton Park, where he finished seventh.
Crucially, he completed all but one of the 21 races, which underlined his consistency and reliability throughout the season. Therefore, he enters his second year with a full season of experience to build upon.
Strong karting background supports development
Before his return to circuit racing, McLean built an established reputation in karting. He secured seven titles in three years, including the British Karting Championship in 2018.
Following a four-year break from competitive racing, he returned to motorsport and quickly re-established himself within the junior formula ladder. Consequently, his progression into GB4 reflects both natural ability and rapid adaptation.
McLean has expressed clear intent to fight closer to the front during his second GB4 campaign. He aims to convert his experience into stronger race results and consistent podium contention.
“Very excited to have re-signed with Pace for my second year in the GB4 Championship. Last year was incredibly valuable for me, and I can’t wait to get started with the 2026 season. Fighting for the top step on the podium is where I want to be, and I’m looking forward to putting all the hard work from the team and myself into action.”
His comments reflect a clear shift in focus from development to performance.
Pace Performance Team Principal Sean Byrne has backed McLean to take another step forward in 2026 after a season of steady progress.
“We’re really pleased that Josh has elected to come back to GB4 with us next year. Considering he had close to five years away from racing before the start of the season, Josh did a great job to reacclimatise himself, and his performances improved steadily as the year went on. We’re confident that with his underlying ability, he will impress in 2026.”
A platform for progress in 2026
McLean now enters his second GB4 season with increased experience, improved confidence, and a stable team environment. With a full year of racing already completed, he focuses on closing the gap to the front-running group.
If he continues his upward trajectory, he could establish himself as a consistent podium contender in the 2026 GB4 Championship.
