The Boy from Barbados on the brink of Formula 1

by Damian Hall/The Voice Online

he world of motorsport has long been dominated by drivers from the United Kingdom, Germany, and Italy. But now, a new star from an unexpected corner of the globe is looking to bring more heat to Formula 1.

Zane Maloney, the first Barbadian ever to compete in Formula 2, is not just racing for personal glory, but carrying the hopes and dreams of a small nation.

Driving for Rodin Motorsport, the 21-year-old’s journey is a testament to determination, bravery, and the relentless pursuit of passion.

Sport has always played a major role in Maloney’s life. Though he was “good” in school, he knew in the end, it “was all sports for me.”

“I used to play cricket and football all the time at St Michael’s [Secondary School] in Barbados,” he told reporters. “I was the captain in football and vice captain in cricket. Anything to do with sports I feel I have a good feeling with it. If I wasn’t racing I would probably be doing UFC, I wouldn’t live as long, but I would probably have a good time.”

He does, however, seem to have longevity where motorsports is concerned though. The F2 Championship is a fiercely competitive arena and the final step before entering Formula 1. The cars in this series do not benefit from the advanced performance or handling technologies of F1 machines. Unlike F1, the teams are given identical cars. This means the drivers’ talents shine through even more.

Maloney’s talent shines brightly. He has been battle-tested and proven worthy, racing his way through the ranks, earning the 2019 British F4 Championship as a rookie and finishing runner-up in the 2022 FIA Formula 3 Championship, missing out by the narrowest of margins.

Now competing in F2 for his second season with Rodin Motorsport as a Sauber Academy driver, he has the added responsibility of being a reserve driver for Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber. The Barbadian kicked off the season in impressive form, claiming two wins in Sakhir.

In a sport where national representation is often limited to industry giants, his presence on the F2 grid is groundbreaking. Every time Maloney takes to the track, he creates history.

Talking about the support he receives back home, he jokes that the time difference (Barbados is currently five hours behind the UK) can prove tricky for fellow Barbadians to watch him in action in real time.

“Unfortunately they have to wake up at 3:00 a.m. each time, so maybe I’ll try to change the time difference for y’all,” he laughs.

On a serious note, he says, the support from his place of birth has been most welcome. Maloney is currently sponsored by Bushy Park Barbados, Rock Hard Cement, MJet FBO, and Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI), which designed his helmet.

“[Both] Rock Hard Cement and Bushy Park Barbados have been with me throughout my whole career,” he says. “They’ve always supported me and they’re the reason why I’m here.”

He adds that more recently the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc [BTMI] has been onboarded, and as well as designing his helmet, have also created a billboard adorned with his face, which is currently situated at the island’s only airport and on the highway too.

“That is pretty cool,” Maloney says. “I’ve had lots of support from Barbados.

“Of course the hope is to have a Formula One driver from Barbados. I’ll always represent the Barbados flag as I should and I’ll be pushing to get to that dream, so thanks for the support.

After the recent British Grand Prix, Maloney, affectionately dubbed ‘The Boy from Barbados’, is third in the standings. Given his exceptional performance in F2, where he has already showcased his talent with multiple podium finishes, the transition to F1 seems inevitable. His progression represents more than just a career move; it symbolises the potential of the Caribbean region to produce world-class talent in diverse fields.

The term ‘The Boy from Barbados,’ summarises his identity and journey, making him a standout figure in the racing community. His mature approach to racing, combined with a fearless attitude, makes every race an exciting spectacle no matter where he qualifies.

As the Formula 1 circus moves to new venues, all eyes will be on Maloney to see how his career progresses. Each race brings him one step closer to the ultimate dream of competing in F1. With his talent, determination, and the support of fans from Barbados and around the world, Zane Maloney is poised to become a global ambassador for the region – and he’s ready to do just that.

Maloney’s journey from the beaches of Barbados to the high-speed circuits of F1 is nothing short of inspirational. His story is a powerful reminder that with passion, perseverance, and a bit of bravery, anything is possible.

As he continues to race towards his dreams, Maloney carries with him the hopes of a small island and the pride of an entire region.