Three Kiwis chosen for regional Ferrari Driver Academy selection camp

Three young New Zealand racers have been chosen to take part in the Asia-Pacific and Oceania selection camp for the Ferrari Driver Academy. The Ferrari Driver Academy is renowned for promoting and funding young talents such as current Formula 1 drivers Charles Leclerc and Mick Schumacher.

Christchurch’s Jacob Douglas, 17, Southland’s Alex Crosbie, 15, and Hayden Bakkerus, 17, of Auckland were all successful in their applications to the selection camp. The trio join 21 other drivers aged 14-17 from the Asia Pacific and Oceania region who were chosen for the selection program to be held at the Sepang International Circuit, Malaysia.

During the first two days of the event focus on evaluating the aspiring drivers with around three hours of track time in Formula 4 cars as well as training and testing in engineering and data, media, fitness, nutrition and psychology.

Six finalists will progress to the final shootout on the last day of the camp. The top two will then progress to the Ferrari Driver Academy World Finals in Italy. Success at the world finals event could potentially lead to the offer of a place in the Academy.

“It’s great to have New Zealand’s junior talent recognised by the Ferrari Driver Academy,” said MotorSport New Zealand CEO, Elton Goonan.

“New Zealand punches well above its weight when it comes to the motorsport talent we export to the world. These three young racers are exciting talents and I wish them all the best for the selection camp.”

Crosbie is the 2022 NZ Formula Ford Champion, Douglas is in his debut USF2000 season in the USA while Bakkerus is a Formula Ford front runner and Elite Motorsport Academy of New Zealand graduate.

The selection camp takes place on 25-28 September.