Rafaël Pérard has confirmed his racing programme for the 2026 season, signing a one-year contract with Palou Motorsport to compete in Eurocup-3. The Frenchman steps up to the Spanish-based championship after an encouraging Formula 4 campaign, as Palou Motorsport strengthens its structure ahead of a major technical shift in the series.
The announcement places Pérard within an increasingly ambitious project, backed by a newly confirmed technical partnership with PREMA Racing.
Strong foundations from French F4 to aid Pérard in 2026 Eurocup-3 campaign with Palou Motorsport
Pérard built his reputation during the 2024 French F4 Championship, where he finished seventh overall and quickly established himself as a front-running contender. He made an immediate impact by claiming second place in the opening race of the season at Nogaro during the Easter Cup.
Over the course of the year, Pérard added three podium finishes, including second place in the opening race at Magny-Cours and third in Race 1 at Le Mans. Those results highlighted both his adaptability and his ability to convert pace into consistent results across different circuits.
Before finalising his move to Palou Motorsport, Pérard completed an extensive testing programme in Eurocup-3 machinery. He also competed in a Eurocup-3 outing at Spa-Francorchamps last November, where he impressed teams with his speed and race awareness.
That experience helped confirm his readiness for the step up and aligned him with a championship that has proven fertile ground for French talent. Esteban Masson, the inaugural Eurocup-3 champion, claimed eight wins in 2023, while Jules Caranta delivered multiple podiums and pole positions in 2025.
Palou Motorsport expands with PREMA backing
Pérard joins Palou Motorsport at a pivotal moment. Founded in 2023 by four-time IndyCar champion Alex Palou and his father Ramon Palou, the team has progressed rapidly, securing multiple podiums and its first Eurocup-3 victory earlier this year.
Ahead of the 2026 season, Palou Motorsport has confirmed a technical partnership with PREMA Racing, one of the most successful teams in junior single-seater history. The agreement will see PREMA provide engineering expertise, technical support, and simulator access, significantly reinforcing Palou Motorsport’s competitive foundations.
The team has also announced the signing of Bianca Bustamante, a former F1 Academy driver, underlining its commitment to a diverse and performance-driven line-up.
A timely opportunity for Pérard
For Pérard, the move offers more than just a seat. He joins a growing project that combines technical excellence, proven leadership, and clear ambition at a moment of regulatory change. With PREMA support and a team on an upward trajectory, the 2026 season presents an ideal platform for the Frenchman to establish himself at the next level of European single-seater racing.
As Eurocup-3 prepares to turn the page, both Rafaël Pérard and Palou Motorsport appear well positioned to make the most of the opportunities ahead.
