The Ferrari Driver Academy (FDA) Asia Pacific and Oceania Selection Program has reached the next stage of selection, with the top six drivers having been chosen for the final day. 
 
With Sepang International Circuit the circuit of choice for the program during the past two days, 23 young drivers from around the region were put through their paces in rigorous testing to determine the six finalists for the regional program. 
 
From spending time in the Formula 4 cars cutting laps around the former Formula 1 circuit, to testing their fitness and media skills, the assessment hasn’t been purely based on the best lap times. 
 
Drivers also spent much of the program working through data analysis, sponsorship advice and nutrition information.  
 
While all 23 drivers were impressive in their efforts, only six were able to progress through to Wednesday’s final stage, before the six becomes two – with that pair to compete in the World Scouting Finals in October. 

Being chosen for the finale were Christian Cowie, Gianmarco Pradel, James Piszcyk, Alex Gardner, Patrick Heuzenroeder and Jack Beeton – all of whom were impressive in both the car and in other areas of the event. 
 
The six drivers will now spend all of Wednesday going through a replication of a standard international Formula 4 weekend where they will complete practice and qualifying sessions in the morning and a race simulation in the afternoon. 
 
The day will take place under the watchful eye of Ferrari Driver Academy representatives Marco Matassa and Alessandro Vantini. 


Matassa, Director of the FDA in Maranello, was impressed with the performances and the efforts of all young teenagers and believed the top six was a great reflection of the group’s overall talent. 
 
“A big well done to all the drivers who came to this famous circuit and did a wonderful job over two busy days of testing,” Matassa said 
 
“Of course, there is still a lot of work to do on Wednesday for the top six drivers who must remain focused as it will be extremely tough. 
 
“At the Academy we are very keen on ensuring that the most talented drivers from these regions get a chance to try for a place in the FDA Scouting World Finals in Italy. 
 
“I wish all those who took part in this program, the best of luck for their future and I look forward to seeing how the top six handle the difficult conditions tomorrow.  We are excited to see who will be selected to take part in the FDA Scouting World Finals. 
 
Also involved in the selection of the top six was Motorsport Australia’s Director of Motorsport & Commercial Operations Michael Smith, who praised all participants.  
 
“First of all, a big congratulations must go to all the drivers for being invited to take part in the program and doing a fantastic job in all components of the event,” Smith said. 
 
“Unfortunately, only six can progress through to the next stage and these six drivers were selected as the strongest candidates for Wednesday’s final, before two are selected for October’s World Scouting Finals. 
 
“I wish the 17 talented young drivers who were unable to reach the next stage all the best in the next phase of their motorsport career’s and look forward to following their progress over the next couple of a years.”