The 17-year-old Italian will continue his journey with the Italian team after his strong performances in Formula Regional.
After months of speculation, it’s now confirmed: Trident has officially signed Matteo De Palo for the 2026 FIA Formula 3 Championship. The promising Italian talent, born in 2008, will continue his career with Giacomo Ricci and Maurizio Salvadori’s team, where he is already competing in the Formula Regional European Championship by Alpine.
Currently sitting second in the standings with two rounds left, De Palo has secured four wins and as many podiums in 2025, proving himself as one of the most exciting prospects on the European scene. Before FRECA, he raced in Spanish Formula 4 in 2023, finishing fifth overall, before stepping up to Formula Regional in 2024.
For Trident, this is the second driver confirmed for next season, following Freddie Slater, highlighting the team’s strategy to focus on young talent. “I am very happy to continue my collaboration with Trident Motorsport as I make my FIA Formula 3 debut,” said De Palo. “It will be a huge challenge and I will give my all to make the season unforgettable.”
Team Manager Giacomo Ricci also expressed his satisfaction with the agreement: “We are extremely proud to confirm that Matteo, currently fighting for the Formula Regional title with Trident, will race with our colors in Formula 3. Just like Leonardo Fornaroli, Matteo’s path will continue within the team. It will be an important step because the cars are very different, but we will have time to prepare him properly. He has already shown great speed and consistency, two essential qualities for success in Formula 3.”
