Here's the thing: Freddie Slater is getting his shot at a Formula 1 race weekend much sooner than expected. The young British driver will step into the Audi Formula 1 Team machinery to take part in the Free Practice 1 sessions at both the Mexico City and Sao Paulo Grands Prix.
It is a massive leap, but one earned through a brilliant campaign. Slater put together a strong season in Formula 3, battling for the championship all the way down to the final round and securing second place in the standings alongside eight podium finishes, which notably featured a Feature Race victory in Budapest with TRIDENT.
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,
Looking ahead, the 18-year-old is already locked in for a step up to FIA Formula 2 with Invicta Racing for 2027. But before that future arrives, he gets to handle the R26 on a Grand Prix weekend, first in Mexico and then a week later in Brazil.
“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 added: “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, made it clear that the promotion is well deserved. “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,” McNish stated. “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.”
