The transition from Formula 3 to Indy NXT has been one of learning for 18-year-old competitor and HMD Motorsport driver Jack Beeton, as he sets his sights on podiums in 2026.

Beeton, who made the jump in the back half of 2025 from Formula Regional Europe to the United States’ premier open-wheel category, is fresh off a productive two days of testing in Miami as he gathers momentum for the upcoming series.

“The adjustment from F3 Regional and Europe to Indy NXT has been exciting and refreshing,” Beeton said.

“I’ve really enjoyed the challenge, and the team has made the transition smooth. It feels like a natural next step for me.

“Starting testing on a positive note gives me a lot of confidence heading into Round 1. It’s reassuring to see the preparation paying off, but I’m staying grounded and focused on continuing that progress.

“The Miami circuit used for Formula 1 was a really cool experience. I’ve watched those races here on TV back at home, so to do laps around this iconic circuit was special for me personally.”

Beeton has undergone a major shift in his training for 2026. Physically, he focused on building more strength to handle the demands of the car, especially with the different tracks on offer in the US.

Jack noted it will be a big challenge adapting to the variety of the series, but a challenge he looks forward to welcoming.

Mentally, Beeton is in a good place after a challenging 2025 season. Technically, Beeton has also spent time reviewing data and refining his race craft while observing improvements in multiple areas.

The Gold Coaster will be one of three Australian competitors to make up the grid, joining Andretti’s Lochie Hughes, another Gold Coaster, and fellow rookie and Cusick Motorsports’ Nicolas Stati for the season. Hughes returns for his second season in Indy NXT and Stati makes his Indy NXT debut after various stints in several categories in 2025.

Beeton was timed doing the fastest lap on the first day of testing, Hughes finished the opening day of testing in second and third on day two, while Stati logged the second most laps on the final day of testing with 168.

Beeton said the Aussie contingent on the grid was a good indication of the strength of Australian motorsport talent, although the feelings of national pride are promptly put to the side during live racing.

“It’s great having a couple of other Aussies in the field. Motorsport can be a small world, so having familiar faces around makes it feel a bit like home,” Beeton added.

“At the same time, once the helmet goes on, we’re all competitors pushing for the same thing.

“My goals for 2026 are to be consistently fighting at the front and challenging for podiums and wins. I want to show clear progression from last year and establish myself as a serious title contender.

“Most importantly, I want to maximise every opportunity and keep improving each weekend. I’m just really grateful for the opportunity. America has been incredibly welcoming, and I feel at home with this new team.”

The series opens this weekend on the 1.8-mile Streets of St. Petersburg circuit for the Grand Prix of St Petersburg.