Next generation: Barrichello and Lammers step up ladder

Two sons of well-known Formula 1 figures are making moves that could one day bring them to the top tier.

Fernando Barrichello, son of 11-time grand prix winner Rubens, is set for his FIA Formula 3 debut at Monza with AIX Racing.

The 19-year-old Brazilian will then contest the full 2026 campaign. “I’m excited to fight for big things,” Barrichello said.

Team boss Kenny Kirwan admitted the challenge is steep. “We will be throwing him into the deep end a little, however the experience will prove invaluable for his preparations for 2026.”

Elsewhere, 17-year-old Rene Lammers has signed a management deal with Fernando Alonso’s A14 stable. The Dutch youngster is the son of former F1 driver and current Dutch GP boss Jan Lammers, who says his own approach to fatherhood differs from that of Jos Verstappen.

“My approach is different from Jos Verstappen’s with Max,” he told De Telegraaf. “I hope he has fun and enjoys himself, but I also want him to realise how far you can go when pushing yourself. He won the first six races of the (Spanish F4) season, which was really good. But if you don’t win, you’re not going anywhere.” Jan Lammers has no doubts about his son’s potential.

Asked if Rene can make Formula 1, he replied: “Yes!” The long-term A14 contract places Lammers alongside other rising names under Alonso’s wing, including Sauber rookie Gabriel Bortoleto and Sebastian Montoya, son of Juan Pablo.