David Crespo, a Motorsport Engineering Master’s degree student, scoops the prestigious Autosport Williams award.
The prestigious Autosport Awards on Sunday evening, held at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London, saw the presentation of the Autosport Williams Engineer of the Future award. Initiated in 2015, the award underwent a revamp in 2022 to better reflect the evolving landscape of motorsport engineering and its commitment to inclusivity.
Engineering students from any UK college or university are eligible for this award, which assesses candidates through modules in Esports, Formula 1, and junior formula engineering. The 2023 recipient, David Crespo, is on the cusp of completing his MSc in Motorsport Engineering and has recently worked as a race engineer in British Formula 4 with Virtuosi Racing.
David expressed his gratitude on receiving the award: “To win the 2023 Autosport Williams Engineer of the Future Award is the best reward I could get after years of effort. However, I must keep working to one day be, not an engineer of the future, but an engineer of the present.”
David’s prize includes a unique opportunity to shadow a race team engineer during a 2024 Formula 1 test day with Williams Racing. Dave Robson, Head of Vehicle Performance, commented on the rigorous nature of this year’s assessment tests, acknowledging the exceptional performances of the finalists and the challenge faced by the judging panel in selecting David as the winner. He praised David’s potential for a successful career in motorsport.
Alex Kalinauckas, Grand Prix Editor at Autosport, remarked on the depth and talent showcased during the award process, highlighting David’s impressive communication skills and enthusiasm for innovative engineering challenges. Steven English, Director of Esports at Williams Racing, noted David’s outstanding performance in both virtual and real-world racing, emphasising the significance of Esports as a viable route into motorsport engineering.
The Autosport Williams Engineer of the Future award continues to celebrate and nurture emerging talent in motorsport engineering, paving the way for future innovators in the field.
