17-Year-Old Alex Bowen Becomes Youngest GT3 Driver

News Summary

Alex Bowen, a 17-year-old from St. Petersburg, has made history by becoming the youngest driver in the GT3 racing series in Italy. Competing with Imperiale Motorsports in a Lamborghini, he has already achieved notable successes, including setting a record as the youngest driver to secure a pole position and finishing third in the overall championship. Bowen continues to train diligently as he strives for higher ambitions in motorsports, showcasing the potential of young talent in a demanding environment.

St. Petersburg – In a remarkable achievement, 17-year-old Alex Bowen from St. Petersburg has made history by becoming the world’s youngest driver in the GT3 racing series in Italy. This milestone marks a significant moment in the realm of motorsports, as Bowen competes at a high level in a sport known for its intense competition and technical demands.

Bowen is entering his second season with Imperiale Motorsports, where he handles a Lamborghini with an impressive engine output of nearly 700 horsepower. As a participant in the GT3 series, he is capable of reaching speeds that exceed 175 mph, a feat that is pivotal for young drivers aspiring to transition to higher tiers of racing, including IndyCar and Formula 1.

At just 16 years of age, Bowen accomplished a notable feat by becoming the youngest driver ever to secure a pole position in the GT3 series. His impressive abilities on the track also contributed to his team’s success, finishing third in the overall championship. These accomplishments highlight his rapid progression in a demanding and competitive field.

Recently, Bowen received his driver’s license, an achievement that comes with the added challenge of adjusting to the complex controls of a racing car, which features more buttons than a standard game controller. He continues to hone his skills both on the circuit and in simulation. During practice laps in his shifter kart, he can reach speeds nearing 90 mph, significantly surpassing the typical 40 mph of conventional go-karts.

Bowen’s racing journey began when he first captured a podium finish at the age of 13 in go-kart racing at T-4 Kart Plex in Palmetto. His commitment to the sport is further demonstrated by the countless hours he spends training on a racing simulator, where he has developed an impressive capability to achieve speeds close to 180 mph on Italian tracks.

Presently, Bowen is taking online classes, which allows him to focus on his racing ambitions while still pursuing his education. Had he been attending high school, he would typically be in his senior year at St. Petersburg High School. His family provides steadfast support, with his father expressing pride in Bowen’s determination and accomplishments, underscoring the importance of family in his racing career.

As of March 2025, Bowen distinguished himself further by becoming the youngest driver ever to podium in the GT3 series, finishing in third place. This accomplishment adds to his growing list of achievements and reinforces his reputation as a rising star in the racing community. Looking ahead, Bowen has set his sights on competing in the IMSA Series in the United States next year, although participation will depend on securing additional funding.

Bowen’s commitment to his racing career is underscored by his desire to establish himself as a formidable competitor in the sport, striving for podium finishes that will define his legacy, rather than his age. His active presence on social media platforms like Instagram and representation by the MSM Group further highlight his engagement with fans and the motorsport community.

As Alex Bowen continues to make strides in racing, his journey showcases the potential of young talent in a sport that demands rigor, precision, and dedication. He embodies the aspirations of many aspiring drivers, and his record-breaking achievements set the stage for what promises to be a bright future in motorsports.

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