Williams Signs 10-Year-Old American Karting Whiz to Driver Academy Deal

Williams has signed 10-year-old US karting star Lucas Palacio to its Driver Academy.

Palacio, who is from Vienna, Va., won on his karting debut in 2020, aged 6, and received an age waiver to join the Mini Swift category in 2022. He won all three Mini Swift National championships (USPKS, SKUSA Pro Tour, and Stars Championship) a year later, and this year switched across to the international scene.

Palacio contested the WSK Super Master Series and the ACI Italian Championship 60 Mini Class, where he finished fourth of 69 competitors.

As part of the Driver Academy, Palacio will receive guidance and training to assist his development in motorsport, as well as his personal development.

Williams has nurtured its Driver Academy in recent years, with both Logan Sargeant and Franco Colapinto graduating to Formula 1 via the route.

“We’re very pleased to announce that Lucas has joined the Williams Racing Driver Academy,” said Williams sporting director Sven Smeets.

“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.”

Added Palacio: “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 [Team Principal] James Vowles, Sven Smeets, and everyone at Grove.”