Zak O'Sullivan crowned Young Driver of the Year at Autosport Awards

Williams Racing Driver Academy member Zak O’Sullivan has topped off a memorable few days by picking up the Autosport BRDC Young Driver of the Year award for 2021.

On Friday it was confirmed that Zak had joined our Driver Academy here at Grove and tonight, on his 17th birthday, he has now claimed this prestigious accolade.

The youngster earned his initial nomination thanks to a stellar performance in his debut GB3 season, which saw him coast to the title with a 164-point margin from his nearest challenger.

After impressing at the two-day test at Silverstone, along with in fitness assessments and in the simulator prior to the track action, the panel decided that Zak would join the acclaimed list of previous winners.

Shortly after being presented with his trophy, we caught up with the understandably thrilled racer.

“I was happy enough with the nomination so to win is pretty awesome,” Zak said.

“I really enjoyed the experience back in October but to go home with the prize is the icing on the cake.

“It’s massive for a young driver like myself who is still developing their career; so many past Formula One drivers have won the award. It's surreal and I’m so proud to be on that list.

“I’ve had a really good 12 months. From February last year when I had just started testing for GB3, before having a really good season, then joining Williams and now this award tops it off. I can’t wait for what lies ahead!”

Previous winners of the award include Williams luminaries George Russell and David Coulthard plus current Brand Ambassador Jenson Button, so Zak finds himself amongst some pretty esteemed Williams company.

It's a great way to kick off the year for the young man from Cheltenham who is busy preparing for his debut season in FIA Formula 3 with Carlin.