Williams F1 juniors Nakamura-Berta and Bondarev crowned Formula Middle East champions

Qatar, February 13, 2026 – Williams Formula 1 juniors Kean Nakamura-Berta and Oleksandr Bondarev secured major titles in a dramatic 2026 Formula Middle East finale at Lusail International Circuit in Qatar.

Driving for the Prema-run Mumbai Falcons Racing, Nakamura-Berta produced a remarkable comeback to win the Formula Regional Middle East Trophy (FRME) title. The 18-year-old London-born Japanese-Slovakian overturned a 24-point deficit to Mercedes junior Rashid Al Dhaheri, claiming pole for both races and sealing the championship with two dominant victories to finish 12 points ahead.

American Sebastian Wheldon completed two Mumbai Falcons 1-2 finishes, while Jan Przyrowski and Alex Powell also reached the podium. Nakamura-Berta additionally secured the FRME Rookie title, with Mumbai Falcons taking the Teams’ championship.

In the UAE4 Series, Ukrainian driver Oleksandr Bondarev held off a strong challenge from Mercedes-backed Andy Consani to secure the championship by eight points. Consani won the final race, but Bondarev’s fifth-place finish was enough to clinch the crown. David Cosma-Cristofor and McLaren junior Christian Costoya completed the podium.

Kenzo Craigie sealed the UAE4 Rookie title, finishing ahead of Costoya and Alp Aksoy, while R-ace GP claimed the Teams’ championship.

“The level of competition we saw this season once again confirms the enormous potential of motorsport in the Middle East,” the organisers said. “These championships are becoming an important platform for young drivers from around the world, and it’s exciting to see so many emerging talents developing here on their path toward the highest levels of the sport.”

By Barbara Cardilli

Motorsport & Lifestyle Expert | Chief Editor