Carlin’s O’Sullivan crowned BRDC Young Driver of the Year

New Carlin and Williams Academy Driver Zak O’Sullivan celebrated his 17th birthday on Sunday by winning the Aston Martin Autosport BRDC Young Driver of the Year award.

Beating fellow Formula 3 racers Jonny Edgar and Ollie Bearman, as well as Euroformula Open vice-champion Louis Foster, O’Sullivan claimed the award after a two-day test at Silverstone, which included fitness and simulator evaluations. The winner was announced at the Autosport Awards on Sunday.

The 17-year-old was announced in Formula 3 with Carlin on Friday, with Williams adding him to their academy alongside Carlin’s Formula 2 racer Logan Sargeant.

He was nominated for the award on the back of a dominant GB3 campaign, in which he won seven times and took 14 podium finishes on his way to the title.

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“I was incredibly happy with the nomination and really enjoyed the evaluation experience in October, so to go home with the prize is the icing on the cake,” said O’Sullivan. “It’s a massive achievement for a young driver like myself who is still developing their career. So many past Formula One drivers have won the award, so I’m very proud to be on that list.”

Williams Racing Sporting Director Sven Smeets added “I want to congratulate Zak on behalf of everyone at Williams Racing on winning such a prestigious award.

“He is an incredibly worthy recipient, having demonstrated his capabilities across all areas and confirming his comprehensive ability. I’m delighted that the panel have recognised and acknowledged the same talent in him that we have.”