Audi sign Freddie Slater to their newly formed Driver Development Program

The British driver will compete in the FIA Formula 3 Championship in 2026 with Trident Motorsport, supported directly by the Audi Driver Development Programme. Slater’s appointment represents the first concrete activation of the initiative and underlines Audi’s intent to invest early in elite young talent as it constructs its future works Formula 1 operation.

Slater arrives with an exceptional junior record. His career progression has been defined by rapid success across multiple categories, beginning with dominant title winning campaigns in CIK FIA Karting World and European Championships. That momentum continued seamlessly into single seaters, where he secured both the UAE and Italian Formula 4 Championship titles at his first attempt.

Most recently, Slater impressed in the highly competitive Formula Regional European Championship, where he claimed multiple victories and rookie of the year honours on his way to the overall championship. His performances highlighted a level of maturity, race craft, and consistency that have placed him firmly among the most highly rated prospects in junior motorsport.

The programme is directed by Audi motorsport legend Allan McNish, with Slater’s signing setting the tone for how Audi intends to integrate young drivers into its wider motorsport structure as preparations for Formula 1 continue to accelerate.

McNish said: “In Freddie, we see the immense potential of a future star. His track record is remarkable, but more importantly, he possesses the focus, determination, and willingness to learn that are essential for reaching the pinnacle of our sport.

"He is the ideal candidate to be the first signing of the Audi Driver Development Programme, and we are committed to providing him with the tools, mentorship, and support he needs to succeed as he steps up to Formula 3 with Trident Motorsport.

"This is the first step in building our future on and off the track," McNish concluded.

Slater described the opportunity as a defining moment in his career, he said: “It’s an incredible honour to be the first driver selected for the Audi Driver Development Programme.

"Audi is a brand with a legendary motorsport history, and to have their trust and support at this crucial stage of my career is a dream come true. Joining forces with a respected team like Trident Motorsport for Formula 3 and having the backing of Audi Revolut F1 Team is a massive opportunity.

"I am fully focused on working hard and making the most of this pivotal step towards my goal of reaching Formula 1.”

Slater’s appointment reinforces Audi Revolut F1 Team’s emphasis on youth, structure, and long term planning as it lays the foundations for a competitive presence at the pinnacle of the sport.