Ferrari officially announces departure of long-standing F1 academy talent
Today at 03:46 PM
Scuderia Ferrari has officially announced the departure of long-time junior driver Robert Shwartzman, as the Russian-Israeli talent prepares to transition to a career in IndyCar racing in the United States.
Robert Shwartzman first joined Ferrari’s junior ranks at the end of 2021 and has since been an integral part of the Scuderia’s roster. Over the past two years, he participated in mandatory FP1 sessions, stepping in for Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz during the Mexico City and Abu Dhabi Grands Prix in 2022 and 2023, respectively. Continuing in 2024, Robert Shwartzman again fulfilled these duties for the Stake team at the Dutch and Mexico City races. However, during his final FP1 appearance, he received a five-place grid penalty for a yellow-flag infringement—one he is unlikely to ever serve as his focus now shifts to a new chapter in motorsport.
Robert Shwartzman is set to join the Prema IndyCar team, a new entrant on the series’ grid, which will debut in 2025. Notably, he will reunite with fellow former Ferrari junior Callum Ilott, who has established himself in IndyCar. The move signals a significant step for both Robert Shwartzman and Prema as they venture into North American single-seater competition.
Expressing his gratitude, Robert Shwartzman took to social media to thank Ferrari for the “privilege” of working with the iconic team, marking the end of a chapter defined by development, opportunity, and memorable experiences.
“Driving for Scuderia Ferrari has been one of the best experiences in my life! I'll never forget the feeling of driving a Scuderia Ferrari F1 car for the first time,” he wrote on social media – “I'll always be grateful for every single lap, every experience and it has been such a privilege to work with some of the most talented and bright people in racing. I know my time with the team has shaped me into a better driver and I'm ready to carry all the memories with me into my next adventure.”
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