The 2026 Formula Regional Japanese Championship (FRJC) is set to begin with renewed momentum and a 16-car grid. Notably, the series welcomes its largest opening-round entry since 2021, signalling clear growth after several lean years.
Moreover, the championship continues to strengthen its role within Japan’s single-seater ladder. After a fiercely contested 2025 season, expectations run high as established names and ambitious newcomers prepare to battle across six rounds.
A revitalised platform for progression
Last year transformed the series’ reputation. Previously, small grids limited its appeal; however, greater manufacturer involvement reshaped perceptions. In particular, Toyota expanded its junior presence, reinforcing the championship’s value as a stepping stone towards Super Formula and beyond.
Although the championship continues to run the dependable Dome F111/3 chassis, drivers now view FR Japan as a credible development arena rather than a fallback option. Consequently, the 2026 grid blends youth, experience and returning contenders across both overall and Masters categories.
The 2026 Formula Regional Japanese Championship (FRJC) calendar
As in recent seasons, organisers have scheduled six rounds. This year features 14 races, one fewer than in 2025. Importantly, two triple-header weekends will test consistency and adaptability.
2026 Calendar:
- Round 1: Suzuka International Racing Course (27 February–1 March)
- Round 2: Suzuka International Racing Course (22–24 May)
- Round 3: Mobility Resort Motegi (26–28 June)
- Round 4: Sportsland Sugo (28–30 August)
- Round 5: Fuji Speedway (25–27 September)
- Round 6: Fuji Speedway (9–11 October)
Additionally, the field will complete a pre-season test at Suzuka on 26 February, offering teams vital preparation time before the curtain-raiser.
Where to watch?
Fans can follow every race live on the championship’s official YouTube channel with Japanese commentary. The broadcast features split-screen coverage and live timing. Meanwhile, RaceLive provides additional live timing data throughout the weekend.
Weekend format and points system
Each race weekend follows a structured format. Two 45-minute practice sessions take place on Friday, allowing drivers to refine set-ups. Subsequently, two 15-minute qualifying sessions on Saturday morning determine the grids.
On triple-header weekends, officials set the third race grid using each driver’s second-fastest time from the first qualifying session. Therefore, consistency proves just as important as outright pace.
The championship adopts the standard FIA scoring structure, awarding 25 points for victory down to one point for 10th place. Crucially, organisers award no bonus points for pole or fastest lap. Furthermore, only the highest-finishing driver from each team scores towards the teams’ standings, increasing intra-team pressure.
Teams and drivers: A competitive 2026 Formula Regional Japanese Championship (FRJC) grid
The 2026 Formula Regional Japanese Championship (FRJC) features a 16-car grid at the opening round, marking the series’ strongest start since 2021. Crucially, the field blends ambitious juniors targeting progression to higher categories with experienced Masters contenders who add depth and unpredictability.
Several established outfits return to defend their positions, while new and revived entries strengthen the paddock. As a result, the championship enters its seventh season with renewed competitiveness across both the overall and Masters classes.
TOM’S TGR-DC
Reigning teams’ champions TOM’S return under the TGR-DC banner as they continue their collaboration with Toyota. After securing both titles in 2025, the squad once again sets the benchmark.
- Yuzuki Miura (#37) – Miura showed steady improvement in Japanese F4 last year, finishing strongly with consecutive points finishes and a podium at Motegi. Now stepping up, he aims to convert that late-season momentum into consistent results in FR Japan.
- Masana Muto (#38) – Muto endured a challenging rookie F4 campaign but demonstrated flashes of pace, including a podium at Autopolis. He now embraces the opportunity to prove himself at a higher level.
Ponos Racing
Ponos Racing returns as the second-highest placed team from 2025 and expands to a two-car line-up. The team builds on a season that delivered multiple podiums and a third-place finish in the teams’ standings.
- Ryota Horachi (#45) – The 2024 Japanese F4 runner-up joins the team after a solid 2025 campaign. Horachi brings proven single-seater experience and targets immediate front-running performances.
- Kento Omiya (#54) – Omiya claimed eight podiums last season and finished fourth in the drivers’ standings. With continuity on his side, he aims to mount a sustained title challenge.
Rn-sports
Rn-sports continues its steady presence in the championship with a blend of experience and continuity.
- Hibiki Komatsu (#10) – Komatsu impressed during his cameo appearance at the 2025 finale, where he secured a second-place finish. He now steps into a full campaign determined to build on that breakthrough result.
- Masayuki Ueda (#11) – The team owner returns to the cockpit in the Masters class. Ueda combines extensive experience with competitive ambition as he balances management and driving duties.
Aiwin
Aiwin returns for its second season after claiming the 2025 Masters class title.
- Yutaka Toriba (#13) – The reigning Masters champion defends his crown against a larger field this year. Toriba’s experience and consistency position him as a central figure in the class battle.
Ragno Motor Sport
The team continues its development programme with a single entry for 2026.
- Lin Chenghua (#48) – Lin enters his third season of single-seater racing in Japan. After securing two fourth-place finishes last year, he aims to convert strong pace into podium finishes.
Fujita Pharmacy Racing
The team maintains continuity heading into the new season.
- Hideaki Irie (#46) – Irie switches to the Masters class after finishing 10th overall in 2025. He now focuses on class honours while continuing to gain overall experience.
Abbey Racing
Abbey Racing fields a familiar Masters contender once again.
- “Akita” (#44) – After finishing second in the 2025 Masters standings with two wins, Akita returns determined to go one better this year.
Eagle Sports
Eagle Sports strengthens the Masters field with a returning competitor.
- Shoichiro Akamatsu (#40) – Akamatsu competed in selected rounds last season and secured a Masters victory. He now aims to increase his consistency across the full campaign.
N-Speed
N-Speed continues its long-standing participation in the championship.
- “Yugo” (#23) – The 2024 Masters champion remains the only driver to have entered at least one round in every FR Japan season. His experience makes him a perennial class contender.
Sky Motorsports
The only non-Japanese team on the grid returns with a new driver for 2026.
- Paul Wong (#36) – The Hong Kong racer makes his FR Japan debut in the Masters class. With prior experience in Formula Regional machinery and Lamborghini competition, he adds international pedigree to the field.
Nilzz Racing
Nilzz Racing continues its selective FR Japan programme.
- “Yuki” (#18) – A consistent Masters competitor since 2022, Yuki has secured four class wins and previously finished second in the standings. He remains a strong challenger.
Dr. Dry Racing Team
Dr. Dry joins the grid after competing in Japanese F4 in recent seasons.
- Rio Shimono (#86) – The reigning Kyojo Cup champion enters FR Japan following a dominant title-winning campaign. She now targets a strong debut season against a competitive mixed grid.
Team LeMans
Team LeMans returns to the championship for the first time since 2022.
- Li Xuanyu (#88) – Li makes his single-seater debut after competing in GT categories across Asia. He embraces a new challenge as he transitions into Formula Regional machinery.
A promising season 2026 Formula Regional Japanese Championship (FRJC) ahead
Ultimately, the 2026 Formula Regional Japanese Championship blends youth development, seasoned Masters racers and expanding team programmes. With 16 drivers on the opening grid and strong manufacturer backing, the series continues to rebuild its status within Japan’s motorsport ladder.
As the lights go out at Suzuka, drivers will not only chase race wins but also fight to position themselves for the next step towards Super Formula and international competition. Consequently, the 2026 campaign promises close battles, emerging talent and a compelling title fight from start to finish.
