McLaughlin aiming for quick F3 integration with Hitech TGR in 2026

Hitech TGR rookie for 2026 Fionn McLaughlin continues his journey with the British outfit as he steps up to FIA Formula 3 next season.

The Irish driver claimed the British F4 title in 2025, earning five victories ahead of his F3 promotion, an opportunity he said he was ready for with Hitech and Red Bull’s support.

“Definitely pleased to be stepping up to F3 now with support from Oli and Helmut. I think just to get the opportunity to become an F3 driver is quite tough to do. We’re going to try and make the most out of it and I can’t wait for the first round in Australia next year.”

The Red Bull Junior Team member was in the F3 car for the three post-season tests in Jerez, Barcelona and Imola in October, as he began his preparations for the step up.

He explained how much of a change it was, but also what he was focused on developing in the early stages of his adaptation to the Championship.

“I think I’m just focused on learning as much as I can. It’s a bit of a jump going from Brands Hatch straight into a first F3 test, so I had to adapt quickly.

“But I think I’m doing well so far. I’m just trying to learn as much as I can, learn the new techniques for the new car and see how much I can get up to speed. I’m just trying my best to be well prepared for my first season.”

Diving deeper into the intricacies of the 2025 F3 car, McLaughlin explained the big differentiators between the F4 and F3 level, with braking performance and high-speed demand a step up from what he was used to.

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He added that he was looking forward to tackling these next year, and how much he enjoyed his first taste of F3 machinery across the tests.

“Driving is definitely different form F4. There are a few things, in particular the brake pedal, you have to manage. It’s completely different in terms of speed. It’s about building up confidence in the high-speed and trying to be more on the limit of the car than what you believe you can do.

“In general, the car is amazing. There’s much more aero compared to F4, it’s just a pleasure to drive. You have to believe and trust that the grip is there, and your confidence has to be very high to get there. Every test I was getting faster and faster and I’m learning more and more.

“I think it’s really on the edge but to get there, it’s very hard. I’m going to try my best to be as ready for the first round as I can be and make the most of it.”

With the on-track action over for 2025, focus now switches to winter break mode, though that doesn’t mean a total switch off for the 2026 Hitech TGR driver.

Physical preparation is the big focus alongside the typical sim programme with the team, as he gets set to launch a hopefully successful campaign in F3 next year.

“Over the winter it’s all about sim work and gym as well. We have a good amount of time to get ready, and we’ll be making the most out of it.

“I think being in a similar environment, I haven’t had to change many things, just focusing on adapting to the new car. I feel like Hitech is family now and I’m pleased to still be with them. Hopefully we can carry on in this journey.”