Campos Racing will head into the official 2026 FIA F3 pre-season tests at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya with an unexpected adjustment to its driver line-up as Patrick Heuzenroeder replaces Ernesto Rivera. Although the Spanish team will field all three cars across the scheduled three days, circumstances beyond its control have forced a last-minute change just days before running begins.
The official tests, which run from Tuesday 10 February to Thursday 12 February, represent a crucial step in preparations for the 2026 FIA F3 season. Consequently, every lap carries importance, both for drivers adapting to the machinery and for engineers refining performance.
Injury rules Ernesto Rivera out of testing
Ernesto Rivera, already confirmed as part of Campos Racing’s 2026 FIA F3 driver roster, will miss the Barcelona tests due to injury. The Mexican driver continues to recover from back pain sustained during a heavy crash at the final round of the Formula Regional Oceania Trophy in New Zealand.
As a result, medical advice has prevented Rivera from taking part in on-track activities this week. While the team had planned to use the tests to further integrate him alongside his future team-mates, Campos Racing has prioritised his recovery to ensure he returns at full fitness later in the season.
Despite this setback, the team remains confident in Rivera’s long-term prospects and expects him to resume driving duties once he fully recovers.
Patrick Heuzenroeder steps in for Rivera at 2026 F3 Barcelona tests with Campos
In response to Rivera’s absence, Campos Racing has called upon Australian driver Patrick Heuzenroeder to fill the vacant seat for the duration of the Barcelona test. Heuzenroeder will join Ugo Ugochukwu and Théophile Naël, ensuring the team maintains a full three-car programme throughout the week.
Heuzenroeder already forms part of the broader Campos structure and will compete in Eurocup-3 this year with GriffinCore Campos Racing. Therefore, his familiarity with the organisation allows for a seamless transition into the F3 environment.
Moreover, the test offers Heuzenroeder a valuable opportunity to gain experience with the FIA F3 car, one of the most competitive single-seater platforms on the junior ladder.
Focus on data, development and preparation
Throughout the three-day test, Campos Racing will focus on data collection, car set-up optimisation and tyre evaluation. With Ugochukwu and Naël both confirmed for the 2026 season, the team aims to establish a strong technical baseline early in the year.
Meanwhile, Heuzenroeder will work closely with engineers to provide additional feedback, contributing to the overall development programme. His input will support the team’s broader objectives, even though his participation remains limited to testing duties.
Ultimately, despite the late change, Campos Racing approaches the Barcelona tests with determination and clarity. While Rivera recovers, the team continues its preparations uninterrupted, reinforcing its commitment to competitiveness ahead of the new FIA F3 season.
