Born in the Brazilian capital of Brasília, Felipe Nasr is the Latin American countries latest rising star. With success in Formula BMW and British Formula Three, he certainly has the pedigree to be considered as a bright talent. With Williams recently announcing that they will be retaining Felipe Massa and Valtteri Bottas for 2015, where will the 22-year old end up in 2015.
Nasr is currently contesting in Formula One’s junior formula, GP2. The Brazilian currently sits second in the championship behind British driver Jolyon Palmer. The latter has been incredibly consistent this season and looks set to be crowned GP2 champion however it should be noted that winning the championship does not necessarily guarantee you a place in Formula One – ask Fabio Leimer, Davide Valsecchi and Giorgio Pantano.
Felipe Nasr has a wealth of sponsorship behind him with a reported $18 million (£11 million) which would certainly attract cash-stricken Formula One teams. Despite having significant financial backing, his talent and pedigree speaks volumes. At 17-years of age, Nasr won the 2009 Formula BMW Europe season scoring 104 points more than his nearest rival Daniel Juncadella. He finished fifth in his first year of F3 before dominating his second season winning seven races and recording 16 top three finishes over the first eight rounds of the series. Runner-up that year was current McLaren driver Kevin Magnussen.
In 2012, he moved to Formula One’s feeder series – GP2. His first season was fairly successful finishing ninth overall with four podium finishes. In 2013, Nasr was in contention for the championship however a dip of form in the second half of the season and inability to win his first race cost him. It was confirmed in February 2014 that Nasr would be joining Williams as their reserve driver for the season – he would partake in several practice sessions in the place of Valtteri Bottas. His 2014 season has been very successful, winning three races and scoring seven podiums and remains in the title fight with Jolyon Palmer.
Nasr has the talent but also the needed funding required to secure a Formula One drive but what are the options for the Brazilian? Sauber are an option due to their financial struggles however a move to the Hinwil based team could prove difficult due to their connections with the Mexican telecommunications company Telemex who sponsor Esteban Gutierrez. In addition, Adrian Sutil has already stated he has been assured a seat for 2015. Another option for Nasr would be with Marussia or Caterham, both are stricken for cash and are looking to refresh their line-ups for 2015 – that is if they survive by then.
Felipe Nasr could end up like most, having the apparent talent but not finding a space in Formula One. When there are still poor, pay-drivers such as Sutil, Maldonado, Chilton and Ericsson in Formula One, it is difficult for the likes of Nasr and Palmer to find a way into the pinnacle of Motorsport. Nasr has the talent, hopefully he can get the opportunity he deserves.
