Freddie Slater set for F1 race weekend debut with Audi in Mexico City and Sao Paulo

Freddie Slater will make his debut on a Formula 1 race weekend with the Audi Formula 1 Team, taking part in both the Mexico City and Sao Paulo Grands Prix Free Practice 1 sessions.

Slater had a strong season in Formula 3, fighting for the title until the final round. He finished second in the Championship with eight podiums, including a Feature Race victory in Budapest with TRIDENT.

For 2027, the 18-year-old is set to step up to FIA Formula 2 with Invicta Racing.

Before then, Slater will make his debut in F1 for Audi in Mexico, before driving in FP1 again a week later in Sao Paulo.

At the announcement, the British driver expressed how excited he was to achieve a childhood dream.

“Getting behind the wheel of a Formula One car at a Grand Prix weekend is a big moment for me and something I’ve been dreaming of since I was a kid,” said Slater. “I’ve learned a lot this year, and these Free Practice outings with Audi Revolut F1 Team will be another opportunity to keep gaining on-track experience.

“Being part of the Audi Driver Development Programme has already given me some incredible opportunities, and I am grateful for their trust and support. I’m really looking forward to getting out on track: m y focus will be on doing the best job I can, helping the team with its programme and taking as many learnings as possible from both sessions.”

Racing Director and Director of the Audi Development Programme, Allan McNish added: “We have seen Freddie making great progress throughout recent years, both on and off the track; it is the right time for Freddie to step-up. These appearances in Mexico and Brazil will give him valuable experience of a Formula One race weekend, and another chance to continue his development before he steps up to Formula 2 next season. We are looking forward to seeing him in the R26 and supporting him through these two important FP1 sessions.”