Rashid Al-Dhaheri will compete in the 2026 Formula Regional European Championship (FREC) with R-ace GP, strengthening his position within the Mercedes Junior Team. The move signals clear intent from both driver and team as they target consistent podium contention across Europe.
Al Dhaheri to continue building on strong early momentum with R-ace GP as he takes on 2026 FREC challenge
After building experience in Formula Regional machinery over the past two seasons, Al-Dhaheri now enters 2026 with greater maturity and sharper racecraft. Crucially, he already understands the R-ace GP environment.
Earlier this year, Al-Dhaheri contested the Formula Regional Middle East (FRME) Trophy with R-ace GP. He secured three victories, four podium finishes and multiple fastest laps, finishing second overall in the standings. As a result, he established immediate chemistry with the team’s engineers and demonstrated front-running pace.
From karting prodigy to Mercedes Junior
Al-Dhaheri began his motorsport journey at just three years old and quickly rose through the karting ranks. He claimed the 60 Mini titles in the 2019 WSK Super Master Series and WSK Euro Series before adding OK Junior crowns in the WSK Champions Cup and WSK Super Master Series in 2021.
He then graduated to Italian F4 in 2023 with Prema Racing, finishing inside the top ten overall and scoring a podium at Macau. In 2024, he delivered two wins and five podiums in the Formula 4 UAE Championship, underlining his consistency and race-winning capability.
Thereafter, he stepped up to Formula Regional competition. In 2025, he secured three podium finishes in the European Championship and earned selection for the Mercedes Junior Programme.
Speaking on his continued relationship with Mercedes, Al-Dhaheri said: I’m very proud to be part of the Mercedes-AMG F1 Junior Programme. Being surrounded by such an experienced and successful group has helped me develop massively, both on and off the track. Over the last season we have worked incredibly hard, and it’s great to see that effort translating into strong results. I’m grateful for the guidance and support I receive every day, and I’m excited to keep pushing forward together for the rest of the season.”
Title ambitions for 2026
Now, with established momentum and factory-backed support, Al-Dhaheri approaches the 2026 FREC season with clear ambition. Moreover, R-ace GP’s proven track record in nurturing young talent strengthens his prospects.
If he converts his early-season speed into sustained consistency, he could emerge as a genuine contender for the Formula Regional European crown.
