A Record-Breaking Season: 2024 Formula Regional European Championship by Alpine
The 2024 Formula Regional European Championship by Alpine (FRECA) season was an extraordinary showcase of young talent and determination, highlighted by record-breaking performances and new milestones. This fourth season featured 41 drivers from 20 nations, illustrating FRECA’s role as a premier development platform for the next generation of racing stars. Held over 10 rounds on some of Europe’s most iconic circuits, the championship not only set new records but further cemented its reputation as a vital stepping stone to the top levels of motorsport.
Key Figures and Achievements
With 11 teams from seven countries, including the all-female Iron Dames, the 2024 championship reflected an inspiring mix of diversity and raw talent. Among the season’s highlights:
41 Drivers from 20 Countries: Led by French drivers (eight), Italians (six), and British (four), FRECA attracted young talents from across the globe.
20 Races Across 10 Events: Double-header events across Europe provided thrilling, intense battles that tested drivers and teams to their limits.
24 Points Scorers and 16 Rookies: Newcomers contributed significantly, adding a layer of unpredictability and excitement to each race.
Championship Standouts and Record-Setters
Rafael Camara of Prema Racing clinched the 2024 Drivers’ Championship with an astonishing season that broke multiple FRECA records. His stats include: 7 Wins, 12 Podiums, and 7 Poles (with four consecutive poles), totaling a record 309 points. Camara’s dominance confirms his readiness for the next level as he moves to FIA Formula 3 with Trident next season.
James Wharton, another Prema standout, earned the Vice Champion title with 4 wins, 10 podiums, and 5 poles, amassing 236 points. His flawless performance at Barcelona added him to the exclusive group of FRECA drivers who have completed perfect weekends. Next year, he will continue his journey with ART Grand Prix in FIA Formula 3.
Tuukka Taponen of R-ace GP finished third, with 4 wins, 7 podiums, and 3 poles, totaling 197 points. His consistent performances have secured his place alongside Wharton at ART Grand Prix in FIA Formula 3.
Meanwhile, Noah Strømsted of RPM emerged as the Rookie Champion, delivering an impressive season with 7 rookie wins, 4 podiums, and 1 pole position. His achievements included securing RPM’s first pole position at the Red Bull Ring, a milestone that contributed to their strong season.
Team’s Champion: Prema Racing
Prema Racing sealed the Team’s Championship with 12 wins, 24 podiums, and 12 poles, setting a record of 575 points. Their triumph marked their third consecutive double championship, achieved with a round to spare. This season also saw them achieve FRECA’s first 1-2-3 finish since 2021, highlighting their excellence.
Special Honors: The Dilano Van’t Hoff and Raceilience Awards
The 2024 season introduced two new awards to celebrate the essence of FRECA: Dilano Van’t Hoff Award: Created by former RPM driver Adam Fitzgerald, this award honors the best overtaking move of the season, as voted by fans on FRECA’s official Instagram page. Fitzgerald selected five outstanding overtakes for the public to vote on, and Matteo De Palo won for his spectacular pass at the Red Bull Ring. This award celebrates the legacy of Dilano Van’t Hoff and the electrifying art of overtaking.
Raceilience Award: Launched by Pirelli, the Raceilience Award recognizes the driver who displayed the greatest resilience by advancing the most positions from their starting grid throughout the season. Points were awarded based on positions gained per race, with Giovanni Maschio (RPM) ultimately claiming the title. He received the prestigious Pirelli Wheel, a symbol of his perseverance, adaptability, and exceptional racecraft in challenging conditions.
FRECA Graduates on the 2025 F1 Grid
The 2025 Formula 1 grid will include notable FRECA alumni who have made their mark in the world of motorsport. Andrea Kimi Antonelli, the 2023 FRECA Champion, steps up as one of Italy’s brightest young talents. Franco Colapinto, who recently brought Argentina back to the F1 grid for the first time since 2001, also graduated from FRECA, as did Gabriel Bortoleto, another rising star in F1. These drivers’ achievements underscore FRECA’s pivotal role in developing future F1 talent.