Williams Racing sign Lia Block

17-year-old American racer Lia Block has been announced as the latest driver of the Williams Racing Driver Academy and will, therefore, represent the team in the 2024 season of F1 Academy.

Block, who became the youngest ARA champion ever after winning the 2023 American Rally Association Open Two-Wheel Drive, will be racing with McLaren junior Bianca Bustamante for ART Grand Prix in F1 Academy next year. 

Speaking about joining Williams, Block commented:

“I am so excited to be joining the Williams Driver Academy and competing in F1 Academy in 2024. This is something I never could have dreamed of. I can’t wait to embrace this new experience and learn as much as possible.“

James Vowles, Team Principal, Williams Racing, said:

“We are excited to welcome Lia to Williams Racing as our F1 Academy driver for 2024. Lia has already achieved a tremendous amount in motorsport, has incredible natural talent, and the champion mindset and dedication to make a success of her journey into open-wheel racing. We cannot wait to get started on this journey together. As a team, we are committed to Formula 1 and F1 Academy’s joint efforts to improve female representation in motorsport, and we look forward to working with Lia as a key part of the Williams Racing Driver Academy.“

Sébastien Philippe, Team Principal, ART Grand Prix Team, added:

“Extreme sports are part of Lia’s DNA and her debut in high-profile international competitions attest to her talent and her adaptability to a wide range of demanding environments. At 17 years old, Lia is driven with a great determination and an appetite for major challenges that should allow her to quickly find her place on our team and in the F1 Academy.“