The VMB Driver Development Scholarships program, established in 2014, has successfully assisted numerous drivers in transitioning from karting to professional auto racing. “We consistently receive a high volume of applications from a deeply talented pool of drivers,” stated a VMB representative. ‘This year’s applicant pool maintains this exceptional standard.”
Nine drivers were initially selected as semi-finalists, and seven are advancing to the final scholarship program. Jason Maples a 2024 finalist was invited again due to his karting achievements, but will not be participating this year. Maples is currently focusing on Micro 600 dirt track racing in 2025. Gabby Guidera, the 2022 Mini Rok Champion, is also temporarily stepping away from racing this season, with a planned return in 2026.
All nine semi-finalists are accomplished drivers with the potential for significant success as they transition to car racing throughout North America. The seven drivers who will vie for the 2025 VMB Scholarship are: Anthony White, Yashom Kapoor, Erik Doane, Max Altman, Casey Moyer, Ridgeley Welsh and Dane Idelson, (Driver bios here…)
Finalists will be participating in an upcoming shootout. Each of the drivers will be scored on ability, coachability, feedback, self presentation, and communication with the WSM/VMB team members.
World Speed Motorsports together with the VMB founders will discuss the merits of each driver and will then select the scholarship winner to pilot the VMB Academy F4 for the 2025 season.
VMB Drivers have won countless races, and multiple championships since 2014 and have also been able to secure the following awards/scholarships via their VMB seasons:
- Invitations to the Mazda Road to 24 Shootout.
- Invitations to the Mazda Road to Indy Shootout
- Invitations to the Team USA Shootout
- Chosen as Team USA Scholarship Finalists
- Invitations to the IMSA Driver For Diversity Scholarship
- Secured the Team USA Scholarship (William Ferguson)
- Secured the IMSA Driver For Diversity Scholarship (Jaden Conwright)
- Secured the IMSA Driver For Diversity Scholarship (Courtney Crone)
- Secured the Project Podium Scholarship (Courtney Crone)
- Secured the Gorsline Company Scholarship For Young Racers (Courtney Crone)
- Secured F1 Academy Ride (Courtney Crone)
SSI Partners with 2025 VMB Scholarship Selection Process
SSI is a karting school and race team with a top-of-the-line mobile racing simulator. The SSI team will be providing simulation services and driver selection input for the program. More info about SSI…