The Portuguese national anthem rang out at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya this Saturday morning as Ivan Domingues, a 19-year-old talent from Leiria, claimed a landmark win in the FIA Formula 3 Sprint Race — ending a 12-year drought for Portugal in the championship since António Félix da Costa’s last victory.
In just his fifth-ever F3 Grand Prix, Domingues delivered a performance that was nothing short of sensational. Starting from P6 on the grid, he executed a perfect launch, gaining ground instantly and seizing the lead by Turn 3. From that point on, the rookie controlled the race with the precision and composure of a veteran.
🏁 Total Control From the Front
Despite pressure from Noah Stromsted (Trident) behind, Domingues never looked rattled. He maintained a consistent gap that kept Stromsted from attempting any serious overtakes. In fact, Domingues would go on to set two fastest laps and solidify his command over the 21-lap sprint.
When Stromsted ran off track late in the race, Domingues had all but sealed the win — and Portugal’s return to the top step in one of motorsport’s toughest junior categories.
🎙️ Ivan Domingues: “This win belongs to all of us”
After climbing out of the car, draped in the Portuguese flag and visibly emotional during the national anthem, Domingues shared a heartfelt message:
“I’ve always said my dream was to hear the national anthem and see our flag raised on the top step of the podium,” he said. “I share this win with all Portuguese people, especially with my family, my team, and everyone who has supported me.”
“I’m proud to be Portuguese. We’re a country of great people who deserve great things. This victory is filled with joy and humility, because I want to keep growing and achieving more.”
Domingues acknowledged the challenges he’s faced during his rookie campaign:
“We knew the start of the season would be tough. This category is incredibly competitive, but we’ve worked hard and stayed resilient. Now we’ll stay focused, keep improving, and do our best to honor the shield I carry on my helmet — hopefully with another strong result in tomorrow’s race.”
🏆 A New Star for Portugal
Ivan Domingues’ win in Spain is not only a personal triumph, but also one of the most significant moments for Portuguese motorsport in recent years. Coming off a strong run in FRECA, Domingues is now firmly positioned as Portugal’s brightest prospect in single-seaters.
From Leiria to Barcelona, Ivan Domingues has put his name in lights — and made a nation proud. The anthem played, the flag rose, and Portuguese motorsport has a new hero on the rise. 🇵🇹🏁🔥
