Freddie Slater to make Formula 1 practice debut for Audi
British Formula 3 runner-up Freddie Slater will make his Formula 1 practice debut with Audi in the FP1 sessions at the Mexico City and Sao Paulo Grands Prix. The 18-year-old, first recruit to the Audi Driver Development Programme, steps up after a strong rookie F3 campaign that ended with second place overall.
Announcement from Austin
Audi confirmed on 22 October that Freddie Slater will drive the R26 in FP1 at the Mexico City Grand Prix on 30 October and the Sao Paulo Grand Prix the following weekend.[1][2]
Background on Slater
The 18-year-old Briton finished runner-up in his rookie FIA Formula 3 season with Trident Motorsport.[3] He claimed eight podiums in eight consecutive weekends, three pole positions and one Feature Race win before the title was decided in Madrid in September.[2]
Slater was the first driver signed to Audi's Driver Development Programme earlier in 2026.[1] He will move to Formula 2 with Invicta Racing in 2027.[3]
Role in team obligations
The two FP1 appearances help Audi meet FIA young driver requirements while giving Slater his first experience of a Formula 1 race weekend.[2]
Related reading
- [1]Freddie Slater to make F1 weekend debut with FP1 outings for Audi in Mexico City and Sao Paulo (formula1). Accessed 2026-10-23.
- [2]Freddie Slater's FP1 debut | Audi Revolut F1® Team (audi). Accessed 2026-10-23.
- [3]Freddie Slater to drive for Audi in first practice in Mexico City and Sao Paulo Grands Prix (bbc). Accessed 2026-10-23.