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Ferrari Driver Academy announces 2022 roster and line-up changes
The Ferrari Driver Academy has revealed the nine drivers that will take part in the Scuderia's junior programme for 2022, while Callum Ilott and Marcus Armstrong's futures have also been announced.
New Zealander Armstrong, who finished 13th in his last two F2 seasons, will not be a part of the FDA in 2022. As a result, there won't be a single F2 driver in Ferrari's junior roster this year.
As for Ilott, his IndyCar committments mean that Ferrari have put him on a "gap year" for 2022, citing the following reason: "[IndyCar] falls outside the workable scope of the FDA as it would not be able to offer adequate support to the Englishman."
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New appointments to Ferrari's academy are Oliver Bearman – who will race in F3 this season – Rafael Camara and karter Laura Camps Torras. The latter becomes the second female FDA member after Maya Weug, who continues with the academy in 2022.
Camara is one of three FDA students in F4 this season, alongside Weug and Australian James Wharton. There are two F3 drivers in the programme for 2022 – Arthur Leclerc and Bearman – while Dino Beganovic is the Academy's sole Formula Regional racer.
Haas F1 driver Mick Schumacher continues with the FDA, as does Ferrari F1 test driver Robert Shwartzman.
"In 2022, 20% of the F1 grid is made up of past and present FDA students," said Ferrari Team Principal Mattia Binotto. "The dream for them and for us is to do the same as Charles Leclerc, who is about to start his fourth season racing for the Scuderia.
"I wish each and every one of them the best of luck as they progress through the season, which I am sure they will tackle with the will to learn and above all with a smile, because being a racing driver is one of the best jobs in the world."
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FDA head Marco Matassa added: "For the Ferrari Driver Academy, the start of a new season is a serious moment, even more so this year: with the ongoing pandemic, it’s wonderful to be able to again open the doors of the Gestione Sportiva to our youngsters.
"I also want to wish our new intake – Oliver, Rafael and Laura – the very best of luck. They definitely have what it takes and I expect them to confirm the quality of our selection process."
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