In Melbourne, Théophile Naël found that "something extra" that Rafael Câmara had in F3

Building on a promising first campaign in Formula 3 Finishing eighth overall (third rookie), Théophile Naël launched his 2026 season with a bang. In his second year in the category, the Frenchman secured his first pole position with the reigning champion team, Campos Racing.

During an appearance on the AUTOhebdo program last December, Théophile Naël specifically emphasized this major area for improvement. The qualification, he stated last December. I was talking about it with Rafael [Câmara, the 2025 champion of the discipline], we need to find that spark. I have no doubt, because by exploring different tracks and configurations, we'll find the setup that suits me. That's the key. Honestly, we can all manage perfect laps. In F3, sometimes ten or fifteen cars are capable of taking pole position. All those details can make all the difference, though. My approach for the coming year is mainly to be at my best in qualifying. I've started working with my engineer, particularly using data from Boya and Tsolov, to see what I can improve. I can't wait to test all of that. »

Aspiring to be at the forefront this season, Théophile Naël aims to emulate Rafael Câmara, the 2025 F3 season champion. For him, the Brazilian's dominance was largely due to his lap speed. He was head and shoulders above the rest this year. Especially in qualifying. He had that extra something, now it's up to me to find it. We've been working on it with the team since winter testing. They're helping me reach that level. »

So far, the gamble has paid off. By completing the Albert Park circuit in 1:34.187, Théophile Naël finished ahead of his teammate Ugo Ugochukwu, who started second on the grid. This performance is hardly surprising on a street circuit, as he told us: I think that's one of my strengths. I've always loved skiing. »

Armed with a year of experience, Théophile Naël now feels ready for what's next. If I find myself in situations like those experienced this year (Interview conducted on December 18, 2025. Editor's note)I will know how to react, what to do. I will also know the mistakes to avoid. »

On Saturday, during the main race (23:30 p.m. Paris time), the Campos driver will have the opportunity to confirm the confidence of his team and to aim, as promised during our interview, for the top of the championship.

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