Ugo Ugochukwu is aiming to continue his strong start to the 2026 FIA Formula 3 (F3) season as the championship prepares to return in Monte Carlo.
The Campos Racing driver opened the year in impressive fashion in Melbourne, where he claimed his maiden FIA F3 victory in the Feature Race and left the opening round leading the Drivers’ Championship.
With the long break between rounds now coming to an end, Ugochukwu admitted he is more than ready to get back behind the wheel ahead of the in-season test at the Red Bull Ring.
“It’s been a long break,” said Ugochukwu. “It was a nice few weeks, but I think after a while you start to miss the feeling of being in the car and the competition.”
“So I am definitely looking forward to getting back to it and really looking forward to the next round in Monaco. Melbourne was obviously in the past, but it was still a cool experience winning your first race in F3 and performing so well across the weekend.”
First FIA F3 win for Ugochukwu
After dominating much of the Melbourne weekend, Ugochukwu said the results gave both himself and Campos confidence heading into the European leg of the season.
“It was really special to get my first win in F3 and it was also the perfect way to start the season, we really hit the ground running as a team.”
“The weekend even exceeded our own expectations, so that was a good start. But we have to keep pushing because it’s a long season ahead. So, that definitely gives us a lot of confidence going into the next rounds.”
“The goal is to hit the ground running again once the season gets more intense and keep bringing home wins and podiums.”
In season testing at the Red Bull Ring
Before the 2026 FIA F3 grid heads to Monte Carlo, they will first return to the Red Bull Ring for the official in-season test, which Ugochukwu believes will be important after such a long period away from racing.
“The Red Bull in-season test is definitely going to be very important,” continued Ugochukwu. “It’s about getting a feel for the car again for everybody.”
“I think probably with the time off, there’s been a little bit more preparation and sim work, but it’s always good to actually get back into the car. I think that’s going to be a good warmup and to be on top of everything before hitting Monaco.”
Looking ahead to the iconic streets of Monte Carlo, Ugochukwu highlighted how important the weekend could be, not only for momentum, but also for the championship fight.
“It’s going to be really important to start well,” added Ugochukwu. “I think obviously Monaco is the one where everyone wants to do well.”
“It’s a really special race weekend on the calendar. It’s obviously a really good thing if you perform well there, so Monaco is going to be fun.”
“I’m looking forward to it. It’s very challenging, but it’ll be nice to have a good result there.”
“Of course that’s only one round out of the many more we have left. So the main thing is going to be consistent through all the rounds and ideally try to extend the championship lead.”
