The new stage of the Formula Regional Europe has welcomed two prominent teams: MP Motorsport, which returns, and Rodin Motorsport, which enters strongly. Both teams have started the season with good performance, competing against already established teams like Prema and R-ace GP.
After three rounds, MP Motorsport has comfortably positioned itself at the top of the team standings. Driver Sebastian Wheldon has achieved two memorable victories at the Zandvoort circuit, which was the home race for his team, following a surprising advance when he had initially been announced by Prema.
According to Maarten De Busser, MP’s director, Wheldon’s incorporation was quick and decisive. “We had to move very quickly to complete the registration paperwork with the FIA,” De Busser acknowledged, who also commented on the strength of their driver lineup, which includes other talents like Newman Chi and Alexander Abkhazava.
On the other hand, Rodin has come with an experienced lineup, incorporating Alex Ninovic and Reza Seewooruthun from GB3. The two drivers have started the season well, standing out with their performances at the Red Bull Ring.
Rodin’s director, Ben Lathrope, explained that their strategy with Ninovic and Seewooruthun is based on gaining experience and establishing a good foundation for competitiveness. Additionally, the team includes rookie Gabriel Gomez, who, despite not having reported the same initial merits, is quickly learning from his teammates.
The 2026 season is characterized not only by the incorporation of these new formations but also significant changes. The new Tatuus T-326 chassis powered by a Toyota engine developed by Autotecnica, with 15” wheels, has been introduced, and the increased involvement of the FIA has been a motivating factor for the entire team. The new direction has aimed to ensure a more balanced and competitive championship for all participants.
Emanuele Pirro, president of the FIA Single-Seater Commission, emphasized the rigor of the selection process for teams for 2026, highlighting the high demand to join the championship and how the FIA has chosen those who will continue their journey alongside traditional formations.
With the arrival of MP and Rodin in the Formula Regional Europe, the championship gains prestige, offering opportunities for drivers with the goal of progressing to higher-level competitions like Formula 3 and Formula 2. Lathrope mentioned that this new era presents an excellent opportunity for his team to help their drivers advance in their sporting journey.
Both formations have made it clear that they are not participating just to be present and aspire to win in every race. In this new competitive landscape, the performance and reliability of the vehicles have been notable, with only one incident during the second race in Qatar that led to its cancellation.
The commitment between MP and Rodin is clear. Lathrope expressed it: “We haven’t come here to fill lists, but to compete and win.”
Written by FormulaRapidaAI
