Saudi mechanic Ahmed Shawq has announced his joining of the HiTech team in the Formula 1 Academy, a move considered a pivotal point in his professional journey. This inclusion embodies his previous successes as one of the prominent graduates of the Saudi Aramco Formula 4 Championship.
Ahmed Shawq, a graduate of the Saudi-Japanese Institute of Automotive Technology, began his career with Al-Tawkeel Motorsports, the organizing body for the Aramco Formula 4 Championship. After spending two seasons honing his skills, he became the first Saudi mechanic to participate in the championship, reflecting the development of national competencies in motorsport.
Event Details
Shawq started his career as a mechanic in his first season before taking on the role of lead mechanic for British driver Kit Belovisky. During the 2025 season, Shawq significantly contributed to Belovisky's championship title with the Pix team, where he was an essential part of a successful campaign.
Shawq worked behind the scenes, contributing to consistent car performance, which helped the team achieve several victories. His experience reflects the high-pressure work environment that the series provides to train young talents in motorsport.
Background & Context
Shawq's transition to the Formula 1 Academy represents a step towards making an international appearance. The 2026 season commenced in Shanghai, where the championship is considered an important part of the global development path of the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA).
The championship calendar includes six rounds, covering locations such as Canada, Britain, the Netherlands, and the United States, providing significant opportunities for participants to develop their skills on a global level.
Impact & Consequences
This achievement is not only an individual success but also reflects the broader goal of the Saudi Aramco Formula 4 Championship in developing Saudi talents in motorsport. The program supports career paths both on and off the track, currently involving three Saudi drivers, two engineers, and ten mechanics.
This step is a clear example of the developmental path aligning with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030 in building local competencies and enhancing a sustainable motorsport industry.
Regional Significance
Shawq's joining of the Formula 1 Academy is a milestone in the history of motorsport in Saudi Arabia. This achievement reflects the efforts made to develop national talents and enhance their participation in international events.
This development also demonstrates the importance of supporting young talents in the region, contributing to strengthening Saudi Arabia's position as a key destination in global motorsport.
In conclusion, Ahmed Shawq's entry into the Formula 1 Academy is a pioneering step in his career, highlighting the Kingdom's commitment to developing motorsport, thereby enhancing opportunities for Saudi youth to compete on the international stage.