RACE SCHOOL 2026
- Royal Aero Club RRRA
- Apr 21
- 3 min read
A New Season Begins
The 2026 season is officially underway and if it’s anything like last year, we’re in for something special.
The 2025 season delivered one of the closest finishes in recent memory, with just a single point and a single second separating first and second place across the entire year. It was a season defined by precision, consistency, and relentless competition, culminating in a dramatic finish at Wellesbourne where the field pushed together toward the line in an exciting display of close racing.
This level of competition sets the tone for what lies ahead. Check out all our race reports for last season here: https://www.royalaeroclubrrra.co.uk/blog/categories/race-reports
Welcoming the Next Generation of Racers
This year’s journey began at Race School, held at Popham Airfield, where we welcomed 12 new pilots looking to take their first steps into the world of air racing.
It was fantastic to see such a strong turnout of newcomers, each bringing their own experience, enthusiasm, and in many cases, a wide variety of aircraft. From compact, nimble machines like the Baby Lakes and another RV Vans - to larger touring aircraft like the Comanche… the diversity on display promises an exciting and unpredictable season ahead with those big time and speed offsets!
While the day was primarily focused on those new to racing but it was also great to see some familiar faces returning, taking the opportunity to refresh their knowledge and get up to speed with what’s new for 2026.
Learning the Craft
The day began with a series of engaging and informative briefings from the committee, designed to give new pilots a solid grounding in the fundamentals of air racing.
Jonathan kicked things off with an overview of racing operations and rules, setting the scene for what pilots can expect throughout the season.
This was followed by Ian, who walked competitors through the layout and specifics of the day’s course… ensuring everyone was clear on procedures and expectations before taking to the air.
Rounding things off, Matt provided a breakdown of the handicap system, one of the defining features of air racing. His explanation highlighted how, despite the wide variety of aircraft performance, the system is designed to bring competitors together, with the aim of all racers reaching the finish line at the same time.
For newcomers, this was a crucial insight into what makes the sport both fair and fiercely competitive.
☀️ Taking to the Skies
With the briefings complete, it was time to fly.
Pilots paired up with their assigned check pilots, grabbed some lunch and took to the warm, sunny skies above Popham. Conditions were ideal, offering a perfect introduction to the demands and excitement of race flying.
Each pilot completed a checkride, flying the standard octagon course to help establish their likely race speeds for the season ahead. These flights are a key part of the process, giving both pilots and organisers valuable data while also allowing newcomers to experience the rhythm and precision required in a race environment.
Adding to the atmosphere on the day, visitors to Popham were also treated to the sight of its well-known Spitfire replica taking to the skies… a fitting backdrop at an airfield referred to as the “Home of the Spitfire.”
🗺️ Looking Ahead to 2026
With Race School complete, attention now turns to the season ahead.
The 2026 calendar will once again take competitors across five locations and ten races, combining returning favourites with new challenges along the way. Each airfield brings its own character, its own conditions, and its own test of pilot skill - ensuring no two races are ever quite the same.
For those who joined us at Race School, the journey is just beginning.
And for returning racers, the challenge is clear: can anyone go one better this year?
🚀 Ready for the First Race
All that remains now is to get underway.
The season kicks off on May 16th at Haverfordwest, marking the first of ten races that will define the 2026 championship.
If Race School was anything to go by, we’re in for another competitive, closely fought, and thoroughly enjoyable season.
Race Weekend Events
Haverford West - May 16th & 17th
Fishburn - June 20th & 21st
Wellesbourne - July 18th & 19th
Sherburn - August 22nd & 23rd
Shobdon - September 19th & 20th
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