March 19, 2026 – Champagne Racing is proud to announce that 2025 Ligier Junior Formula Championship title winner, Gaston Irazú, will graduate to the Formula 4 United States Championship (F4 U.S.) for the 2026 season, marking the next step in his rapidly rising open-wheel career.
Irazú makes the move to F4 U.S. competition with the help of the Ligier JFC Champion’s Scholarship, which provides him with the lease of a Ligier JS F422 chassis and Ligier Storm engine from Ligier Automotive North America, race tires from Hankook Motorsports USA, and race entry fees from Racing America. Valued at nearly $200,000, the scholarship will assist Irazú as he takes the next step toward a possible career in Formula 1.
In 2025, during their rookie season in the Ligier JFC Championship, Champagne Racing and Irazú delivered on their objectives set during the off-season. Irazú secured the Ligier JFC title in dominant fashion, showcasing consistency, racecraft, and outright pace throughout the season. His championship-winning campaign was highlighted by multiple victories and podium finishes, ultimately sealing the title ahead of a competitive field of emerging talent. Champagne Racing brought home the Team Championship as Irazú and his teammates delivered 22 podiums. The young driver’s progression to F4 U.S. represents a significant milestone both for Irazú and Champagne Racing, as the team continues its commitment to developing drivers through the FIA formula ladder.
“I’m incredibly excited to take this next step with Champagne Racing,” said Irazú. “Winning the Ligier JFC championship was a huge achievement, and I’m grateful to the team for their incredible job throughout the season. Moving up to F4 U.S. Championship is a new challenge, and I’m ready to get to work and keep improving.”
Victor Rubin, Team Principal of Champagne Racing, expressed confidence in Irazú’s ability to adapt quickly to the increased performance and competition level in the F4 U.S Championship.
“Gaston has proven he has what it takes to succeed,” said Rubin. “His championship run in Ligier JFC demonstrated maturity beyond his years. We believe he has the talent and work ethic to be competitive in F4 U.S. right away.”
Irazú is set to make his F4 U.S. debut at NOLA Motorsports Park on April 9–12, following participation in the official preseason test at the same circuit on March 23-24. Irazú will drive the #27 ANCAP / Elia Group / BALY / BSE / Antel / Canal 4 Champagne Racing Ligier JS F422 car.
To stay up to date on Champagne Racing, follow the team on social media using the handle @champagne.racing
For more information on Champagne Racing, please contact Victor Rubin via email to victor@champagne-racing.com or visit Champagne Racing online at champagne-racing.com.
- Champagne Racing Team PR
