Kiwi teen racing prodigy Louis Sharp has been confirmed as a driver for the prestigious Carlin team for the upcoming British Formula 4 season.
The 14-year-old Cantabrian has secured a seat at the same team as fellow New Zealander and F2 driver Liam Lawson to take another step towards his Formula One dream.
"It's all a dream come true," says Sharp.
"I'm excited to kick off my journey with Carlin, the same team as Liam, where the likes of [F1 drivers] Lando Norris and Daniel Ricciardo also raced."
Sharp will travel to England this weekend to begin testing with his new team.
The promotion to F4 is the latest achievement in Sharp's meteoric rise through the motorsport ranks.
At just 12 years old, Sharp became New Zealand’s most successful age-group karter, claiming more national titles and series wins than any other racer.
His success on the world stage then earned him selection into the FIA Academy as one of the world’s most promising talents.
In October, he made his Formula Ford debut, quickly rising to the top of the championship standings.
He was also hand-picked by Kiwi Supercars ace Fabian Coulthard for the Australia Young Driver Scholarship.
Coulthard says the 14-year-old's talent defies his age.
"I've watched Louis' performances over the years and he has impressed not only his ability on the track, but also his maturity," says Coulthard.
"I know Louis will get the job done, wherever he races."
Last month, Sharp tested the Rodin Cars Formula 3 car, breaking the F3 Rodin track record previously held by World Champion and professional British driver Jamie Chadwick.
"My goal is F1," says Sharp. "I know there is a lot of hard work required to make it but this support means I can concentrate on being the best I can be on the track."
The F2 series begins next month but Sharp's debut will be delayed by one race as he waits to turn 15 in May - the legal age to drive in the competition.
