Caterham launches its Racing Academy with Aurélien Panis notably

Caterham, involved in Formula 1 since 2012, has decided to expand its program for young drivers, now called the Caterham Racing Academy. The British-Malaysian team aims to help young drivers reach Formula 1 by supporting them in a manner similar to what Red Bull does.

The main objective of the Caterham Racing Academy is to utilize the expertise within the Caterham F1 team to give a range of talents worldwide the chance to climb the ranks of motorsport, up to the ultimate motorsport, Formula 1. The drivers selected for this program are part of an organization that supports and guides them through their career path, coaching, and assistance in finding partners, the Caterham team states.

For this year 2013, eight drivers have been selected to be part of this program, including the two drivers from his GP2 team, Alexander Rossi (21 years old and also the reserve driver for the Caterham F1 team) and Sergio Canamasas (25 years old). There are also three drivers competing in the Formula Renault 2.0 championships, Matt Parry (18 years old), Weiron Tan (18 years old), and the Frenchman of the group, Aurélien Panis (18 years old), son of Olivier Panis – advisor to Charles Pic, Caterham F1 driver. Finally, there is the youngest member of the program, Daim Hishammudin (15 years old), who is currently honing his skills in karting.

The chosen drivers particularly benefit from the Caterham F1 team’s facilities – starting with the simulator. They will also be supported in their physical preparation and accompanied during race weekends. They will also have the opportunity to attend a Grand Prix with the Caterham F1 team.

They will also be supported in their search for partners to finance their seasons and may receive a reward if they meet the set objectives. However, to remain in the program, they will need to achieve performance objectives.