Australian Formula 3 driver James Wharton will join HMD with TJ Speed Motorsport for a full campaign in the 2026 Castrol Toyota Formula Regional Oceania Championship.
Wharton, who will compete in the FIA Formula 3 Championship with Prema Racing later this year, will take part in the New Zealand-based series during the European winter.
A key development platform for emerging talent, the Formula Regional Oceania Championship offers a competitive environment, challenging circuits, and valuable mileage for drivers targeting the upper levels of single-seater racing.
The program represents a strategic opportunity to maintain race sharpness for Wharton, further allowing him to refine his skills in high-downforce machinery, and continue building momentum outside the European season.
“I’m obviously super excited to start 2026 in New Zealand. It will be my first time racing there and the closest I’ve ever been to home in Australia, so I really can’t wait to get started,” Wharton said.
“This experience will be key in preparing me for my second season in Formula 3, with the goal of arriving in Melbourne fully prepared and ready to go.”
Wharton’s focus remains on performance, consistency, and continued development within a structured and experienced technical environment.
This campaign forms an integral part of his broader 2026 racing program, going hand-in-hand with his FIA Formula 3 commitments.
2026 Formula Regional Oceania Championship Calendar
Round 1 | 8–11 January 2026 – Hampton Downs Motorsport Park – Waikato
Round 2 | 15–18 January 2026 – Taupo International Motorsport Park – Taupo
Round 3 | 22–25 January 2026 – Teretonga Park – Invercargill
Round 4 | 29 January – 1 February 2026 – Highlands Motorsport Park – Cromwell
