Dawsonville, GA – VRD Racing is pleased to announce that João Vergara will compete in the 2026 USF2000 Championship with the team. The 18-year-old Brazilian driver advances to USF2000 following an impressive 2025 campaign in USF Juniors, where he finished third in the championship standings with 292 points, recording two wins and six podiums.

Vergara's progression through the USF Pro Championships has been marked by consistent improvement. After finishing eighth in his 2024 rookie season in USF Juniors, he elevated his performance significantly in 2025 with VRD Racing. The São Paulo native brings a strong foundation to USF2000, having previously won five races and finished as vice-champion in the 2023 Lucas Oil Formula Car Series.

"I am extremely excited to announce I'll be racing in the 2026 USF2000 Championship with VRD Racing," said Vergara. "Can't wait to get back in the car and fight for the title once more! Thank you to Dan, Jacob, the VRD team and my sponsors for making this possible."

VRD Racing's Dan Mitchell expressed confidence in Vergara's step up to USF2000: "João showed tremendous growth throughout his time in USF Juniors with us, and his results speak to his work ethic and natural ability. We've seen his pace continue to develop during our off-season testing, and we're excited to see what he can accomplish in USF2000. He's ready for this next challenge."

Vergara's racing pedigree includes winning the 2020 Copa São Paulo Junior Max Rookie Championship in karting. The 2026 USF2000 Championship season will provide Vergara with the opportunity to continue his development in the USF Pro Championships.