How to Become a Ferrari Race Car Driver

You might think it’s impossible to be the next Ferrari driver, but these two have been through the driver selection process and it looks like there’s a formula in place in order to drive for the famous Italian brand. Here’s their advice:

How to Get Your Foot In The Door

“There’s a number of skills that translate into a strong racer including discipline and patience,” says Westphal. “But one of the hardest for some people to grasp is that you have to become a student – you have to be willing to learn and listen and understand that it takes time and practice.”

Want to take your competition to the next level? From the Ferrari Challenge you can jump into the next tier of motorsports: Pro-Am (which stands for pro-amataeur). At this point, the competition isn’t just Ferrari customers, but legitimate race car drivers in all makes and models. In order to succeed here, it takes a great deal of commitment, money and teamwork with engineers and technicians. Show your worth at this level and it could be the big-leagues calling you up next.

The Scuderia Corsa Drivers

Having won the Porsche Carrera Cup Italy for three consecutive years (2009-2012), it’s clear that Balzan is among the top racers in his country. The move to drive a Ferrari seems like a natural fit. His first season in a 458 Italia saw him win the Ferrari Challenge Europe in 2012, and Balzan followed that up with a 2013 GRAND-AM Rolex Series GT championship.

Although the chance to drive for the world-recognized Ferrari brand is a dream come true, he points out that not everyone gets the chance.

On the other hand, Westphal’s career started with open-wheel F2000 race cars, where he excelled. Now at the helm of the #63 Ferrari 458 Italia, he considers this to be the highest point in his motorsports career. “My espresso intake has tripled since joining the team,” he said smiling. He echoes his teammates thoughts about what Ferrari looks for.

“They don’t just look for speed, but also consider your approach to motorsport as well.” He also cautions that there’s no special perks to the job like a free Ferrari to fool around in.

Back at the Track

The team heads to Indianapolis next, where they are looking for a strong comeback on the exciting Indy road course.