Formula Ford to Formula 1

Rodin Cars and MotorSport New Zealand have launched an exciting new initiative to provide a clear pathway to Formula 1 for aspiring Kiwi drivers through the renowned NZ Formula Ford Championship. This groundbreaking program, titled “Formula Ford to Formula 1, powered by Rodin Cars,” offers unparalleled opportunities for young driving talent.

Career-Defining Opportunity

The winner of the upcoming NZ Formula Ford Championship will receive a fully funded, three-day testing and evaluation program with Rodin Cars in New Zealand. This all-expenses-paid opportunity is designed to identify and nurture exceptional talent.

If the driver demonstrates outstanding skill and potential during this program, they will advance to an extended testing program with Rodin Motorsport in the United Kingdom. Success at this level could earn them a coveted seat in one of Rodin Motorsport’s Formula 4 teams, competing in either the British or Spanish Championships.

Additional Opportunities

The competitive nature of the NZ Formula Ford Championship means that other high-performing competitors may also be invited to participate in the evaluation program. This ensures that all exceptional talents have a chance to be recognised and supported.

Championing Kiwi Talent

David Dicker, Founder of Rodin Cars: “We’re in a great position to provide a clear pathway for talented young drivers from this side of the world. Watching them grow and excel on the global stage reaffirms our company’s passion for driving and motorsport in general.”

Deborah Day, President of MotorSport New Zealand: “We are incredibly proud to partner with Rodin Cars to offer this truly life-changing opportunity to our aspiring drivers. New Zealand has a remarkable history of producing world-class driving talent, and Formula Ford has played a crucial role in that for over 50 years.”

About Rodin Cars

Rodin Cars, based in Mt Lyford, Canterbury, is a leader in developing world-class track cars and is deeply committed to supporting New Zealand talent on the international motorsport stage. With an impressive track record of nurturing talent like Red Bull Formula 1 driver Liam Lawson and British Formula 4 Champion Louis Sharp, Rodin Cars continues to make a significant impact in global motorsport.

NZ Formula Ford’s Legacy

The NZ Formula Ford Championship has been a vital stepping stone for many of New Zealand’s most successful racing drivers, including:

• Liam Lawson
• Scott Dixon
• Greg Murphy
• Shane van Gisbergen
• Earl Bamber
• Richie Stanaway
• Mitch Evans
• Nick Cassidy
• Brendon Hartley
• Marcus Armstrong

2025 Championship Calendar

• Round 1: Timaru, 24-26 January
• Round 2: Highlands Motorsport Park (NZ Grand Prix), 7-9 February
• Round 3: Hampton Downs, 21-23 March
• Round 4: Manfeild, 4-6 April

CLICK HERE FOR FULL NZ FORMULA FORD CHAMPIONSHIP INFO

This initiative solidifies New Zealand’s commitment to fostering world-class motorsport talent and reinforces the NZ Formula Ford Championship as a premier development platform for aspiring drivers. For more information and updates, stay connected with MotorSport New Zealand and Rodin Cars.