As the next natural step in his career, James Wharton will step up to the FIA Formula 2 Championship in 2027, joining Trident Motorsport for his first full season in Formula 1’s immediate feeder series.
The move sees Wharton return to a familiar environment, having made his Formula 2 debut with the Italian team during the 2025 Qatar Grand Prix weekend. Called up at short notice to replace a teammate at Lusail, Wharton immediately impressed with his pace and professional approach, earning Trident’s confidence and ultimately securing a place in their 2027 line-up.
Since then, Wharton has completed his second season in the FIA Formula 3 Championship with PREMA, highlighted by a Sprint Race victory in Barcelona and a second podium finish in Madrid.
The positive impression made during his first F2 experience, combined with his progression throughout his time in Formula 3, has now led to his return to Trident for the next stage of his career.
Giacomo Ricci, Team Manager of Trident, commented:«We are extremely pleased to announce that James Wharton will race for us in the FIA Formula 2 Championship in 2027. He is undoubtedly a highly talented driver, and he has successfully progressed through all the top junior categories, consistently showing that, whenever given the opportunity, he has the ability to compete at the front. We are very happy to begin this journey together. 2027 will be James’ rookie season in Formula 2, and we will do everything we can to give him the best possible preparation. He is a very dedicated and hard-working driver, and we are confident that, by working together, we can put ourselves in a position to be competitive and deliver consistently strong performances throughout the 2027 season».
James Wharton also expressed his excitement about the next chapter of his career:«I really can’t put into words what this opportunity for 2027 means to me. To be able to return to Trident after racing with them in 2025 is something really special. We worked very well together and they are a very prestigious team that has done a great job over the last few seasons. I’m looking forward to joining the team and continuing to work hard with them over the winter, so that we can arrive in 2027 in the best possible shape. A huge thank you to Giacomo and Maurizio for giving me the opportunity to drive their car and be part of their team. I can’t thank Trident enough, and I’m really looking forward to starting this new chapter of my career».
Wharton’s move to Trident marks the next step in his single-seater career, bringing him just one step away from Formula 1.