Photo: Toyota Gazoo Racing NZ
HMD Motorsports with TJ Speed have made a late addition to their Formula Regional Oceania line-up, announcing Trevor LaTourrette will drive one of their cars.
It is also a surprise signing since LaTourrette will be stepping up from a lesser-known Formula 4 series.
The 17-year-old American raced in the Skip Barber Formula Race Series last year, which is considered the first step on the ‘road to Indy’ since it is connected to the USF Pro championships that support IndyCar.
Since 2023, the Skip Barber Racing School was worked with the USF Pro-organising Anderson Promotions as it official racing school.
LaTourrette came fourth in the 2025 SBFRS standings, climbing up the points table after making the podium in each of the last four races.
“My primary goal for the 2026 FRegional Oceania season is to continue developing as a driver and hopefully put myself in a position to fight at the front,” he said of his next career step.
“This year’s grid is extremely competitive, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to compete against drivers of this calibre alongside an equally competitive team. This is a big step forward in my career I’m excited to be doing it in a high-standard environment such as FRegional Oceania.”
LaTourrette only started pursuing a route into motorsport a few years ago while recovering in hospital from a rare disease. His first on-track mileage in a vehicle came in 2023.
“My start in this sport did come later than most so I look forward to using this season as an opportunity to continue learning and improving. This season will certainly be a trial-by-fire, but I’m excited to face the challenges head on in front of a worldwide audience.”
The opening round of the FRegional Oceania season is at Hampton Downs this weekend, and LaTourrette will be team-mate to the Formula 2-experienced James Wharton and Cadi Baptista from Brazilian F4. This year will be the first that HMD and TJ Speed have entered the New Zealand-based contest, which has switched from championship to FIA Regional Trophy status.