Ricciardo announces new Ginetta Junior Scholarship initiative through DRS project

Daniel Ricciardo has announced a new initiative through his Daniel Ricciardo Series (DRS) project that will select two young drivers for a fully funded shot at the Ginetta Junior Championship. The retired F1 star will personally help choose the candidates, continuing his mission to support the next generation of racers without financial barriers.

Why it matters:

Ricciardo's direct involvement in talent development provides a crucial bridge between grassroots motorsport and professional racing. By offering a funded pathway, he addresses one of the biggest obstacles young drivers face—financial constraints—while bringing his elite racing experience to driver selection and mentorship.

The details:

• The initiative will select two drivers aged 14-17 from the DRS program for the 2026 Ginetta Junior Scholarship assessment.
• Ricciardo emphasized his personal role in the selection process, stating "by 'we', I also mean me."
• The October 2026 assessment will be comprehensive, evaluating candidates on fitness, media skills, driving performance, and racecraft both on and off the track.
• The overall winner receives a fully funded seat in the 2027 Ginetta Junior Championship, which serves as a feeder series to the British Touring Car Championship.
• Ricciardo launched the DRS project in 2019 to help young drivers progress without financial worries and confirmed he will attend some races next year to support participants.

What's next:

The announcement adds another layer to Ricciardo's post-racing career as a Ford ambassador and talent developer. While he's no longer competing, his continued presence in motorsport through initiatives like DRS ensures his experience and popularity benefit the sport's future. The selection process will begin soon, with the chosen drivers getting a potentially career-changing opportunity in 2026.