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The Ferrari Driver Academy Asia Pacific and Oceania Selection Program gets underway this week with three intense days of tests on September 25-27 for some of the youngest and brightest talents from around the region.
All 24 drivers of which 15 are Australians, will be put to the test, both in and out of a racing car at the Sepang International Circuit and under the scrutiny of FDA’s Jock Clear and Alessandro Vantini, as well as Motorsport Australia coaches Jayden Ojeda and Andy Jones.
Introductions, seat fittings and the track walk took place in the lead up and before they get to showcase their skill and pace in a Tatuus F4-T421 and work with engineers from AGI Sport and Top Speed Australia.
Out of the car, the participants will undergo fitness and media testing, as well as learning about nutrition, data analysis and sponsorship. At the conclusion of the two days, six drivers will be selected for the final on Wednesday when they will undergo a race meeting simulation.
FDA representatives will then decide who will earn a place in next month’s FDA World Scouting Finals in Italy which will determine who will become a fully-fledged member of the Ferrari Driver Academy program.
“This is a hugely exciting opportunity for these young drivers and to have been selected for the program is an achievement in itself,” said Motorsport Australia Director of Motorsport and Commercial Operations Michael Smith.
“On top of getting to drive on a world-class circuit, they will have access to individuals with a wealth of experience from within the industry, who will provide plenty of valuable information across the event.
“We’re also very excited to be working with AGI once again, as well as Top Speed Motorsport, who have lots of experience in the industry – especially Formula 4, where they run international championships.”
The Australians selected are, from Victoria Giancarlo Artho, Peter Bouzinelos, Pip Casabene, Kristian Janev, and Hayden Millington. They will be joined by Queenslanders Loclan Hennock, Ryan MacMillan, Brodie Norris, Dominic Penman and Lincoln Taylor. South Australian James Piszcyk and Nicolas Stati and Joel Wheeler from West Australia, Tasmanian Jack Taylor and Kamal Mrad from New South Wales complete the line up.
The 24 participants will undergo a series of tests over two days in the Ferrari Driving Academy, with the top six going through to the final on Wednesday.
