Written by Sophie Harvey, Edited by William Stephens
In a surprise announcement, William’s Racing announced that 17-year-old Lia Block will be joining their talent roster for her debut F1 Academy season.
The young American will be racing under the ART Grand Prix banner, alongside McLaren’s Bianca Bustamante and a final teammate, yet to be confirmed.
"I am so excited to be joining the Williams Driver Academy and competing in F1 Academy in 2024!” Block announced. “This is something I never could have dreamed of. I can’t wait to embrace this new experience and learn as much as possible."
Block’s racing career has blossomed from karts to rallycross, most recently competing in Extreme E With Carl Cox Motorsport and earning herself the title of youngest American Rally Association champion in the 02WD class. Block also picked up a podium in the Nitrocross Next class at Phoenix.
James Vowles, Williams' Team Principal stated: "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.”
The Williams Driver Academy is already home to popular names like Jamie Chadwick, Franco Colapinto and previously, current Williams F1 driver Logan Sargeant. Block will be looking to progress in a similar manner, in what will be her first full season of open-wheel racing.
F1 Academy will be a steep learning curve, but with the backing of both Williams Racing and ART Grand Prix, there’s no doubt Block is ready for this next step in her career.