The annual Autosport Awards were held last night in London, and here are some of the most important highlights you shouldn’t miss.
It was a successful evening for the championship-winning team, McLaren. Alongside the Constructors’ trophy that is now staying at the McLaren Technology Centre, the team took not just one, but three additional awards.
Andrea Stella was named the Person of the Year as he guided the team to victory in the high-pressure role of team principal. The MCL38 car, in which the two McLaren drivers secured a total of six Grand Prix victories, won the International Competition Car of the Year. Lando Norris himself was honoured as the British Competition Driver of the Year for the fifth time in his career after his successful season, finishing second in the F1 2024 Drivers’ Championship.
Red Bull’s Racing driver Max Verstappen won the International Racing Driver of the Year, claiming the award for the fourth time as well as the F1 Drivers’ Championship title. In addition, he took home the Moment of the Year award for his masterclass in wet conditions at the Brazilian Grand Prix, where he secured a dominant victory starting 16th on the grid.
To appreciate the women in motorsport, the top three drivers from F1 Academy were also present to collect their trophies, alongside the series’ managing director, Susie Wolff. Abbie Pulling, who secured the 2024 Championship title after a successful season with a dramatic ending, is now looking forward to her next chapter in GB3. Doriane Pin, the Vice Champion, is now even more motivated to claim the title this season. Third place in the overall standing went to Maya Weug. The first female Driver Academy member for Ferrari has shown great potential, however, her future is yet to be confirmed.
The Silverstone Autosport BRDC Young Driver of the Year award went to the British F4 champion Deagen Fairclough. With this win, Fairclough secured several prizes, including a test drive in the Aston Martin Formula 1 car, full membership in the British Racing Driver’s Club, and more.
In another motorsport category, Sébastien Ogier won the International Rally Driver award. Similar to Verstappen, the eight-time Rally Champion secured the Autosport award for the eighth time in his career.
Last but not least to mention, the National Driver of the Year was presented to Jake Hill and the 75th Anniversary Honouree award went home to Bernie Ecclestone.