In Profile: Oliver Gray

Rodin Carlin rookie Oliver Gray is one of four Williams Racing Academy Drivers on the 2023 Formula 3 grid, but how much do you know about the Brit?

He sat down to go through some important questions, from his racing style to favourite circuits and a love of golf.

FIRST RACING MEMORY

“My first racing memory is probably from when I was around eight or nine years old, just going to a birthday party and going karting and just falling in love with it really. It was at Buckmore Park. I think I won that day.”

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR RACING STYLE?

“Probably aggressive. I mean for sure in F3, you’re always pushing in lower categories but pushing all out in Qualifying then needs to be reigned in in the races. It changes session to session. We’ve had no issues adapting so far.”

WHO IS YOUR RACING HERO?

“My racing hero is probably Michael Schumacher, probably because of his dedication and just general greatness.”

WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST RACING ACHIEVEMENT SO FAR?

“I’d say it was last year to be honest. Vice Champion in British F4, it was a great year, lots of consistency, not enough for the title but 17 podiums and a couple wins, that was good. It was probably the Silverstone weekend that stands out the most. Double pole, would have been two wins but I had a little crash, still won the race but got a penalty. It would’ve been the ideal weekend but still, it was very good.”

BEST THING ABOUT BEING A RACING DRIVER

“Probably driving the car but getting to go to all these awesome places with these awesome cars is amazing.”

HOW DO YOU RELAX AWAY FROM RACING?

“I just chill out really, watch Netflix, play some golf with my school mates, see them and relax. Nothing too crazy.”

DO YOU HAVE A SECRET TALENT?

“No, not really. Not bad at golf but I wouldn’t call it a secret talent. Other than that I’m a bit lost.”

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE TRACK ON THE F3 CALENDAR?

“I don’t know, I’ve not driven all of them, I think one that I’m going to enjoy is Monaco. Driving around those iconic streets will be cool. Silverstone as well, I’ve had a few good results there and have a good local knowledge, so those two I’m really looking forward to.

“I think it’s business as usual at Silverstone but you have your bearings and that gives you a bit of an advantage. Being part of Williams and driving for a British team in Carlin, that’s more motivation as well.”