Phase 1 of a Young Drivers Programme was held 20-21 April in Jordan, hosted by Jordan Motorsport and delivered by the Automobile et Touring Club du Liban (ATCL), one of the FIA’s Regional Training Providers.

A total of 28 young drivers attended the programme, ranging in age from 9 to 25 years.

The programme was delivered by the ATCL’s team of experts, including former driver and media expert Khalil Beschir and fitness expert Simon Fitchett.

Not only did drivers have the chance to improve their driving skills, but they also received training in a number of other areas including fitness, nutrition, media, sponsorship and career development. 

Programme details:

• Driving competitions
• Fitness, mental assessment and training
• Speed reaction tests
• Career management
• Racing pyramid and motorsport series guide
• Sports nutrition
• Race driving techniques
• One to one interviews
• Media skills and assessment
• Telemetry

After detailed analysis of the drivers’ performance in all aspects of the programme, the winner was Manaf Hijjawi, who will travel to the UK for a Formula 4 test and development programme with a chance to have an assessment with the Renault F1 Team Academy.  Manaf impressed the training team not only with his skills but also his attitude and professional approach to all aspects of the programme.

In the younger group, below 12 years old, Hamza Al Fayez, age 9, came out on top ahead, just ahead of Faisal Nashko, 10.  This group has greatly impressed, showing significant potential for Jordan Motorsport and the next phases of the programme.

Othman Nassif, Chief Executive Officer of Jordan Motorsport, commented:

"Jordan is a great supporter of motor sport and in line with the strategy set by the Jordanian Motor Sports Association, this year we have decided to focus on potential drivers who are keen to improve their skills. I would like to thank the FIA ​​for giving us the opportunity to hold the course, and the Committee for this session."