Williams signs 10-year-old American driver to its young driver programme

Williams have recently announced that they have signed up-and-coming karting star Lucas Palacio as the newest and youngest addition to their Driver Academy.

The 10-year-old American has been quick to impress in his short career, first taking to the wheel aged just three and winning on his official karting debut in 2020 aged six.

Since that first race, Palacio has continued to outperform his peers, entering the Mini Swift category in 2022 with an age waiver and achieving multiple wins and podiums across championships despite being considerably younger than his competitors. Continuing his impressive rise, he won all three Mini Swift National Championships (USPKS, SKUSA Pro Tour and Stars Championship) a year later.

This year he has graduated to international karting, competing in the WSK Super Master Series where he secured a second overall result, followed by the ACI Italian Championship 60 Mini Class where he finished the series fourth out of 69 drivers.

As the latest talent to join the Williams Racing Driver Academy, Palacio will receive training and guidance to nurture his skills and support his progression in the junior categories of motorsport.

Speaking of the important step in his career, Palacio noted: “This is a dream come true to be part of the Williams Racing family. I’ve always loved racing since the first time I drove a kart so it’s amazing to be part of this team. Now I can’t wait to get started with James Vowles, Sven Smeets, and everyone at Grove!”

Commenting on the announcement, Sven Smeets, Sporting Director, Williams Racing added: “We’re very pleased to announce that Lucas has joined the Williams Racing Driver Academy.

"He’s an exciting young talent that has shown promise in his first few years in karting and has progressed quickly for his age. We’re looking forward to supporting Lucas as he continues to develop throughout his karting career.”