When you think of the Formula world, you think of magnanimous names like Michael Schumacher, Lewis Hamilton, and Max Verstappen. Highlighted by the glitz and glamour, Formula Racing is one of the biggest sports in the world, where both talent and hard work complement each other. In this daunting sport, Sri Lankan rookie Yevan David is establishing a name for himself with his impressive racing philosophy and dedication to his race craft.

Always hungry for more, he is locked in on making his debut in Formula 4 was not only memorable but also a stepping stone to beating his own limits in the future. Deemed as Sri Lankan pride in the racing sphere, Yevan David continues his upward trajectory and gives us a glimpse of how his debut season in Formula 4 has been.

When did you first start racing?
It began in 2014 when my dad and I raced at a go-kart track in Bandaragama. I discovered a natural love and passion for it, so we decided to commence our journey properly by getting a go-kart and racing in 2015.

How has your season been thus far?
My season has been going well so far. It’s my rookie season in F4. I want to be higher up in the order than I am right now and I definitely want to move up places in the championship standings. But, in a nutshell, I’m enjoying myself, not comparing myself to others and improving step by step.

What was your most memorable race this year?
My most memorable race so far must be in the Netherlands, where I raced in the Eurocup 3. It was my first ever weekend in the car and track, alongside the rain that affected the race a lot. But I was able to adapt well and finish in the top 10 for both races and on the podium. It was a great feeling as it was my first time driving in the car and track in Eurocup 3.

Tell us a bit about what you found challenging in your first F4 season.
My biggest challenger so far this season has been focusing on myself, if I’m being honest. Because it is easy to compare yourself to others in this sport and the hardest thing was just to keep focusing on processes and keep focusing on yourself because that’s how you excel in this sport. That’s how you improve as a driver and person. Being focused on track was one of the hardest challenges because you can get distracted by things easily which wouldn’t help you, like comparing other lap times.

How did you enjoy your summer break?
My summer break was quite good. I spent a lot of time with friends and family. I also took a trip to Sri Lanka and Singapore. It was very important to switch off because if you can’t switch off, you can't switch on for race weekends. So, I took some time to de-stress mentally and physically and came back even stronger.

What has been like to represent Sri Lanka on an international stage?
I have only received support from my nation thus far. I haven’t felt any pressure from my country which has been great.

What is your dream team?
Ferrari, of course. Everyone wants to drive for Ferrari one day. I also would like to drive for the quickest team in F1.

Who are your driver heroes?
Sir Lewis Hamilton, because I love his mentality and work ethic. What he’s done for the sport is amazing and his story from karting to where he is now is inspiring.

What is your philosophy as a driver?
Be focused and keep putting in the work. I want to continue developing myself.

What is your plan and goal for the rest of the season?
My plan for the rest of the season is to just enjoy it. Enjoy my last few races in the season this year in Spanish F4 and maximise as much as I can. I just need to focus on myself and focus on the processes and what I can achieve from here onwards.

By Tiranya Yalindee Ranasinghe