Audi have confirmed the signing of 17-year-old Brit Freddie Slater to their driver development programme ahead of the 2026 F1 season. The teenager, who is considered by many to be one of the hottest stars on the feeder series ladder, becomes the first member of their junior squad.

In recent years, few talents have captured the attention of junior racing fans quite like Slater. At just 17, the Warwickshire-born racer has already clinched titles in the Ginetta Junior Championship, Italian and UAE F4 Championships, and the Formula Regional European Championship.

Further still, he achieved such success without the backing of an F1 academy, instead opting to keep his options open for the start of the new technical regulations. Slater will navigate his rookie Formula Three campaign with Trident this year as he caps another milestone on his collision course with F1.

Such is Slater’s talent that he is already on the radar of the reigning world champion. When asked which drivers he would employ for his own fantasy F1 team, Lando Norris named now-former McLaren junior driver Alex Dunne, and his compatriot, Slater.

Now, the 17-year-old’s future has become clearer after he was named as the first member of Audi’s driver development programme on Monday. Quoted in an official press release, Slater 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 One.”

Allan McNish, who was appointed as head of the Audi young driver set-up, added: “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.”