Alice Buckley has been selected for the Ferrari Driver Academy’s World Scouting Finals in November after an impressive weekend as part of the FIA Girls on Track – Rising Stars program in France.
For four intense days, Buckley and 13 other young women were put through their paces at Circuit Paul Ricard where they were tested on their driving ability, as well as physical and mental strength.
From testing in a kart on the circuit’s designated karting track, to driving a Formula 4 car around the international circuit used for the FIA Formula 1 World Championship’s French Grand Prix, there were plenty of opportunities for Buckley to show her pace.
With the program also simulating a race weekend by running a practice and qualifying sessions before participants completed a 20-lap race simulation, the 15-year-old was deemed one of the fastest behind the wheel across the weekend.
In addition to her pace, Buckley was a high achiever in the mental and physical testing aspects, making her one of the top contenders and ultimately selected for the Scouting World Finals.
Being selected alongside Belgian Aurelia Nobels and English drivers Chloe Chong and Chloe Grant, Buckley was thrilled to have just had the opportunity, let alone be selected.
“I am incredibly happy with my results, as well as the people I met and the experience I gained throughout the weekend. It truly was an amazing experience and one that I will never forget,” Buckley said.
“I enjoyed the experience as a whole. It was way above what I expected and was very educational too. I got a lot out of it, and we have a lot to work on before the next stage.
“I really enjoyed driving around Circuit Paul Ricard too. I kept imagining what it was like with the F1 cars going around it, which was so cool. I can’t wait to continue my journey.
“I am very appreciative to have had this opportunity and to be selected as well. It was all pretty amazing and I felt very lucky to have been able to do it.
“A big thank you for all the support from my sponsors, Jess Dane, Lee Hanatschek from Karting Australia and Motorsport Australia. And of course, my parents and my friends and family from home.”
The Ferrari Driving Academy World Scouting Finals will take place at Maranello circuit in Italy later this year.
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