APPLICATIONS OPEN FOR THE FPAK JUNIOR TEAM VELOCIDADE 2026

The Federação Portuguesa de Automobilismo e Karting (FPAK) has opened applications for the 2026 FPAK Junior Team Velocidade, one of the leading programmes for promoting young talent in Portuguese motorsport, integrated into the Campeonato de Portugal de Velocidade.

Since 2023, this FPAK initiative has been bringing new drivers to national and international circuits, highlighting the talent of several young competitors taking their first steps on track and providing them with the tools to develop their potential.

One of the major new features for 2026 is the introduction of the BMW M2 Racing, which replaces the previous Ginetta G40 and will now compete in the Touring Car category as part of the BMW M2 Cup Iberia. Developed by the Bavarian brand specifically for one-make trophies, the new BMW M2 Racing establishes itself as a modern and technically advanced platform for driver development.

The German model produces 313 horsepower, allowing a top speed of 270 km/h. In terms of the chassis, the BMW M2 Racing uses suspension with dampers based on technology developed by BMW for its GT3 platform, while the braking system was designed by BMW M Sport, ensuring high standards of performance, reliability and safety.

The 2026 edition of the FPAK Junior Team Velocidade will feature four selected drivers, split across two cars, competing in four events and eight races. The calendar includes the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve on 16–17 May, the Circuito de Jarama on 6–7 June, the Circuito de Jerez de la Frontera on 7–8 November, and the Circuito do Estoril on 5–6 December.

Male and female drivers aged between 16 and 25 (turning 25 during 2026) from all motorsport and karting disciplines may apply. Four candidates will be selected. Applicants must submit a sporting CV and commit to participating in all rounds.

Applications will not be accepted from drivers who have held International Racing Licences, competed in FIA or international car racing events (with the exception of international karting competitions), or who have previously been part of the FPAK Junior Team.

Applications must be submitted by 28 February 2026 by emailing the sporting CV to comunicacao@fpak.pt. The programme is aimed at drivers holding an FPAK sporting licence in 2025 and follows clearly defined eligibility criteria to ensure a rigorous selection process focused on sustainable career development.

The programme is subsidised by FPAK and Race Ready, with drivers only responsible for tyres and car insurance. As part of the BMW M2 Cup Iberia, candidates are also eligible for Iberian competition prizes of €1,500 for the winner, €750 for second place and €250 for third.

The overall winner will also have the opportunity to test the BMW M4 GT4 EVO with the official BMW España Motorsport team.

According to Ni Amorim, President of FPAK: “The FPAK Junior Team in circuit racing, like other programmes, takes a step forward with the introduction of the BMW M2 Racing. The project’s success in recent years allows this investment, which will give young drivers an experience better suited to today’s motorsport. A new era now begins, with strong involvement from FPAK and Race Ready in promoting the sport among younger generations.”

Diogo Ferrão, CEO of Race Ready, adds: “In recent years, the FPAK Junior Team Velocidade has established itself as a true breeding ground for talent, with drivers developing consistently throughout the season and leaving well prepared to face new challenges at higher levels. This progression has been evident in many young drivers who, after this stage, have moved up to more demanding categories, with many reaching GT4 or GTC in Supercars Endurance. This year we introduce a new car to the programme, the BMW M2 Racing, which, with its performance and competitive environment, we believe will help young drivers progress and develop even more effectively.”

With this technical and sporting framework, the FPAK Junior Team Velocidade 2026 reinforces its role as a decisive step in the pathway of young drivers towards top-level circuit racing, consolidating FPAK’s commitment to the renewal and sustainability of Portuguese motorsport.