PREMA Racing has confirmed that Kean Nakamura-Berta will continue with the team into 2026, stepping up to the FIA Formula Regional European Championship (FREC). This announcement marks a logical and well-earned progression following a sustained period of success in the junior categories.
Furthermore, Nakamura-Berta enters this new chapter with increasing recognition across the motorsport paddock, having recently joined the Williams Driver Academy. His recent performances have not only demonstrated raw speed but also consistency, racecraft, and the ability to perform under pressure.
Early foundations and rapid development
Nakamura-Berta began his relationship with PREMA in 2023 through its karting programme. From the outset, he showed strong potential, adapting quickly to competitive environments. Soon after, he transitioned into single-seater racing, where he continued to build momentum.
During his early campaigns, he competed in regional Formula 4 series, including the F4 South East Asia Championship, where he secured pole positions and a podium finish. He then progressed into the F4 UAE Championship in 2024, where he claimed two victories and finished second overall. These results underlined his ability to compete consistently at the front.
At the same time, he balanced commitments in the Italian Formula 4 and E4 Championships. Although he initially faced a steep learning curve, he steadily improved, gaining valuable experience against highly competitive grids. He secured his first Italian F4 victory and ultimately claimed the Rookie Trophy in the E4 Championship, signalling his growing maturity as a driver.
The 2025 season proved decisive in Nakamura-Berta’s development. Returning to both the Italian Formula 4 and E4 Championships, he delivered a commanding performance across the calendar. Race after race, he demonstrated control, precision, and strategic awareness, which allowed him to dominate both series.
He secured both titles convincingly, amassing 15 wins throughout the year, including two victories in the F4 Middle East series earlier in the season. Consequently, he established himself as one of the standout drivers of his generation.
In addition, he maintained an impressive level of consistency. Since his debut in single-seaters, he has never finished outside the top ten in any championship standings. This reliability has become a defining feature of his racing profile and a key factor in his rapid rise.
Nakamura-Berta carrying confidence into 2026 FREC campaign with PREMA Racing
Building on his dominant 2025 campaign, Nakamura-Berta entered 2026 with confidence and focus. He immediately made an impact by securing the Formula Regional Middle East Trophy title. This early success not only reinforced his credentials but also provided valuable experience in machinery closer to the Formula Regional specification.
Therefore, as he prepares for the European season, he does so with both momentum and familiarity. The transition to the FREC presents a significant step up in competition; however, his recent results suggest he is well-equipped to meet the challenge.
Within PREMA, there is clear belief in Nakamura-Berta’s potential. Team Principal Stephen Mitas highlighted the strength of the ongoing partnership and the importance of continuity:
“We are absolutely delighted to continue our partnership with Kean. Together, we have already enjoyed significant success, and it is only natural to build on that momentum as we enter a new era of the Formula Regional European Championship. His victory in the Middle East Trophy provided an excellent foundation, and we are confident in carrying that strong form into the European season. While we anticipate a highly competitive field, we believe we have a strong package in place, and Kean remains a key asset to our program.”
Driver focused on the next challenge
As he prepares for the season ahead, Nakamura-Berta remains grounded yet ambitious. He recognises the scale of the challenge but also trusts in the environment around him:
“I’m really happy to be part of the PREMA family again for 2026, this time in the FIA FREC team. I’m also excited to have joined the Williams F1 Team Driver Academy and be representing their colours. The new year comes with new challenges, but I have a lot of trust in the team, and I can’t wait to start the season.”
The move to the FREC represents more than just a promotion; it serves as a critical stage in Nakamura-Berta’s long-term career pathway. The series has historically provided a proving ground for drivers aiming to progress towards Formula 3 and beyond.
Although the competition will intensify, Nakamura-Berta’s track record suggests he thrives under pressure. His blend of speed, consistency, and adaptability positions him as a strong contender to make an immediate impact.
Ultimately, as the 2026 season approaches, attention will focus on how effectively he translates his junior dominance into success at a higher level. If his current trajectory continues, he could soon emerge as one of the leading names in European junior single-seater racing.
