A brand-new programme is giving young Kiwi drivers a clearer path to Formula 1, with 17-year-old Blake Dowdall at the front of the race. Dowdall, this year’s New Zealand Formula Ford champion, is set to travel to the UK for a special test drive with Rodin Motorsport at the Pembrey Circuit in Wales.
This opportunity is part of a new plan called “Formula Ford to Formula 1, powered by Rodin Cars”, created by Rodin Motorsport and Motorsport New Zealand. Each year, top young drivers will get the chance to train in faster race cars, like Formula 4 and Formula 3, with the hope of reaching the world’s top racing level.
Blake said he’s excited and ready. “Pressure is a privilege,” he shared. “I’m really looking forward to it.”
The testing starts at Rodin’s base in Canterbury, where drivers train under expert guidance. Some, like Blake, are then chosen to test overseas. Rodin founder David Dicker says the goal is to find the next big Kiwi motorsport star. “We look at talent, not just winners,” he explained.
Blake also attended the Motorsport Academy in Dunedin, which helps drivers grow in other important ways like fitness, mental strength, and working with sponsors.
Motorsport NZ president Deborah Day says these skills are vital. “We know they can drive,” she said. “We’re helping them become complete athletes.”
