Ligier Junior Formula Championship expands to two classes for 2026.
Both generations of the Ligier F4 eligible to race
The Ligier Junior Formula Championship (Ligier JFC) will expand in 2026 with the introduction of two classes, welcoming both generations of Ligier's F4 cars on the same grid: the first-generation Ligier JS F4 and a modified version of the Ligier JS F422.
This new format allows drivers and teams greater flexibility, as the Ligier JS F422 can now be used in both the FIA-certified Formula 4 United States Championship (F4 U.S.) and Ligier JFC, with only a few simple changes — including a lower-horsepower ECU and new rear-wing endplates.
“We're excited for the opportunity that the Ligier JS F422 presents to parents for their young drivers to enter our open-wheel ladder, as a single car can now be used for both Ligier JFC and the FIA-certified F4 U.S.,” said Scott Goodyear, Race Director for both series. “With eligibility across both championships, the car provides flexibility and value, while seamlessly bridging the progression to move up the ladder. I applaud Ligier for the thoughtful engineering behind detuning the JS F422 to ensure it competes on equal footing with the Gen. 1 car.”
The updated JS F422 for Ligier JFC is available now, and Ligier Automotive continues to develop a new muffler to reduce sound levels, which will be offered to all competitors soon.
In 2026, Ligier JFC will recognize separate podiums and championship titles for each class. Both champions — from the Gen. 1 Ligier JS F4 and Gen. 2 Ligier JS F422 — will receive scholarships from Ligier Automotive, including a one-year lease of a Ligier JS F422 and Ligier Storm engine to compete in F4 U.S. in 2027, along with prizes from Hankook Motorsports and Parella Motorsports Holdings.
“We're excited to work with Ligier JFC to give owners of the Ligier JS F422 additional opportunities to race,” said Mo Murray, CEO of Ligier Automotive North America. With a few simple modifications—swapping out to the lower-horsepower ECU and switching the endplates—the JS F422 will now be able to be utilized for Ligier JFC, giving its owners increased flexibility to go wherever the marketplace needs, and providing developing drivers the opportunity to use the same chassis and engine for multiple classes over multiple seasons.”
The 2026 Ligier JFC season will feature 16 rounds across six circuits, with a pre-season test at NOLA Motorsports Park on March 23–24, followed by events at NOLA, Road America, Mid-Ohio, New Jersey Motorsports Park, VIRginia International Raceway, and Barber Motorsports Park.
Learn more at LigierJFC.com
CLICK HERE to learn more about the Ligier JS F4
CLICK HERE to learn more about the Ligier JS F422
Photo credit: Gavin Baker