Photo: ACI Sport
Toyota junior driver Jin Nakamura will step up to the FIA Formula 3 Championship next season with a seat at Hitech GP.
The 19-year-old has been racing in the Formula Regional European Championship this year – his first competing in Europe – and currently sits 11th in the standings having recently scored his first podium with R-ace GP at the Red Bull Ring.
Part of the Toyota Gazoo Racing Driver Challenge Program, Nakamura began his career with two seasons in Japanese Formula 4, finishing fourth in 2022 and then second in 2023 behind team-mate Rikuto Kobayashi.
In 2024 he stepped up to Super Formula Lights with Tom’s and finished fourth, and gained sportscar experience in Super GT’s GT300 class where he placed sixth alongside Kazuto Kotaka. His switch to FRegional started with the Middle East championship at the start of this year, where he won a race and came 10th in the points.
“I am very proud to be joining Hitech for the 2026 FIA F3 season,” he said. “It has been a dream to race in this championship.
“I am grateful to the team for their trust, and to Toyota Gazoo Racing, who have supported me throughout my racing journey. I have learned so much competing in Japan and Europe, and I feel well prepared to take on this next challenge. I can’t wait to get started in testing and prepare for a strong debut next year.”
Nakamura is the first Toyota-supported driver to be placed with Hitech since the British team announced a title partnership deal with the Japanese manufacturer earlier this year.
“We’re excited to welcome Jin to the team for 2026,” said Paul Bellringer, Hitech’s F3 team manager.
“He has established himself as a very versatile driver, adapting well to different categories of racing, and I’m sure that will continue as he steps up to FIA F3. His performances in FREC and FRME have shown strong potential, with consistent podiums and points finishes underlining his clear development. We look forward to working closely with him and helping him maximise his potential as he takes this next step in his career.”