Liam Sceats: from New Zealand Grand Prix Winner to shining on US motorsport stage

Current New Zealand Grand Prix champion Liam Sceats has defied the odds and made a significant mark on the North American motorsport scene so far in 2024. Competing in the highly-competitive USF Pro 2000 Championship, a crucial step on the Road To INDYCAR system, the 18 year old Kiwi has overcome financial challenges, proving his worth on the world stage. Sceats has positioned himself as an exciting export from New Zealand in the world of American racing.

“To have even got to this point where I am down seven rounds, with one more round to go is unbelievable considering I wasn’t sure if it was possible to raise the funding to contest the full season,” said Sceats.

“Not only this, but to look back on how my season has gone, and see results like a win at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, and four more podium finishes is something I’m super proud of.”

It hasn’t been all smooth sailing, though. Stepping into a new environment this year in the USA, having to adjust to a new team, new car and on new tracks against high level competition has presented challenges for Sceats.

“There have been a few weekends this year that have been tough, and character building to say the least. Back to back races in Ohio and Toronto where I was crashed into, neither of them my fault, resulted in me having to deal with expensive damage repairs, and a serious setback for my championship situation.”

Despite facing these challenges, Sceats said he has learnt to be resilient and bounce back from adversity. A prime example in this case, Sceats puts it.

“I went into the following race after what had probably been one of the lowest points of my career, and through overcoming the adversity, I managed to drive a great race to finish 2nd at the City Streets of Toronto event, right in front of the INDYCAR paddock.”

Liam Sceats credits his success to a strong belief in himself, and the great support group he has around him.

“The reason why I relentlessly pursued an overseas opportunity after winning the New Zealand Grand Prix was because I truly believed in myself and the incredible people I’m so lucky to have around me. I’m determined to continue impressing on and off the race track as I climb the ladder towards my ultimate goal of reaching the IndyCar Series,” he says.

Based on his impressive performances in the USA this year, Liam has not only proved to himself but also proved that he has what it takes when given the opportunity. This makes 2025 an exciting prospect for Sceats, with plans in motion to contest a full Indy NXT season, the direct category to the NTT INDYCAR Series.

“Of course, there’s a long way to go before these plans become a reality, as many people know how expensive motorsport is. This next step into Indy NXT requires a significant amount of funding.

“I’m going to continue working hard to raise the required investment behind me, so that I can continue to prove myself as an exciting young Kiwi talent in American motorsport.”

“It’s surreal to be at this point in my career where Indy NXT is on the horizon. I’m confident in my ability that I can be a front-runner at this high-level as well. What makes it feel surreal is the speed of the cars being 500hp and a top speed of over 330km/h, the legacy of drivers like Scott Dixon who’ve competed in the championship and finally, Indy NXT being the direct feeder series into the IndyCar Series, making me one step away from achieving my life-long dream.”

Sceats is focused on the USF Pro 2000 championship finale in Portland, Oregon on the 24th – 25th of August, alongside the IndyCar Series. Currently fourth in the championship standings and second overall rookie, he’s ready to make a final push for a podium finish and cement a great debut year in the USA.