YOUNG Filipino ace karter William Go was selected by the Ferrari Driver Academy from among hundreds of applicants to join its selection program for the pool of drivers that will someday make up the Formula One team.
“I’m thrilled to share the exciting news that I’ve been selected to take part in the upcoming Ferrari Driver Academy Trials next month. This Selection Program is where Ferrari chooses the next drivers, they want to include in their Ferrari Driver Academy,” said Go in his social media post.
After passing the initial screening of the initial list of young talents from Asia Pacific and Oceania, the 15-year-old Go made it to the next batch that was trimmed to 25.
Go was the only aspirant from the Philippines and the rest came from India, New Zealand, Australia, China, and South Korea.
They will undergo rigid screening that includes skills’ tests at Sepang Circuit in Malaysia, and fitness and proficiency tests in dealing with the team and media.
There will also be media and sponsorship sessions along the way before they announce the top 6 drivers. This small group then gets one last shot to impress the FDA and Motorsport Australia representatives for a shot in the FDA Scouting World Finals at the end of October.
“I believe this journey will open doors to a wealth of opportunities – expanding my knowledge, forging valuable relationships, increasing media presence, and hopefully, attracting sponsors who can play a crucial role in advancing my career to the next level,” added the multi-titled karter from Cebu.
Even at a young age, Go is already an accomplished karter, having won several titles in Asia, He event went to Europe to focus full-time on racing.
Go has won championships in the IAME Series Asia, ROK Cup Singapore, and Asian Karting Open Championship, before moving to Europe and focusing to race full-time.
Returning from the lull in racing during the pandemic, Go became the only Filipino to make three podium finishes in Europe last year, placing second in the Karting Genk in Belgium, third in the WSK Euro Series, and third in Circuito South Garda Karting in Italy.
“This experience holds immense potential, not only in terms of motorsport success but also for personal growth. Here’s to hoping for the best and embracing every possibility that lies ahead,” said Go.