Here is some brilliant news for the future of the grid: the Audi Formula 1 Team have officially confirmed that Freddie Slater will take the wheel for Free Practice 1 sessions at both the Mexico City and Sao Paulo Grands Prix.
It has been quite a run for the young driver recently. The 18-year-old is stepping up to Formula 2 next year with Invicta Racing, following a stellar 2026 campaign in FIA Formula 3 where he claimed second place in the Drivers' Championship, backed by one victory and a total of eight podiums.
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,
As the very first driver signed to the Audi Driver Development Programme earlier this year, Slater will make his official Formula 1 race weekend debut in Mexico before heading back out for a second outing a week later in Brazil. He will be jumping into the R26 machine for these crucial outings.
“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,” Slater said. “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.”
He continued, adding: “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: my 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, weighed in on the exciting promotion. “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,” said McNish. “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.”
