Get to know Mari Boya, the first member of the Aston Martin Aramco Driver Academy

Meet our first Driver Academy signing, Mari Boya.

From skiing on the snow-capped peaks of the Pyrenees to karting titles and the glittering podium of Monaco, we pose 20 quickfire questions to the first member of the newly launched Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team Driver Academy.

This is Mari Boya.

1 | Where did it all begin?

"I was born in a village called Les, right on the French border, in the Pyrenees. It's a small place surrounded by mountains and not far from a ski station. I still live there – it's home."

2 | So did you grow up skiing?

"Yes! When I was younger, I skied a lot. Now, I mainly watch and support my cousin, who is a professional skier. I go to cheer him on in winter, when I'm not racing."

3 | How did your motorsport journey start?

"My family doesn't have a motorsport background, but we've always been big Fernando Alonso fans. Watching him inspired me. I always wanted to race; I was always looking for any opportunity to get behind the wheel. I started karting and found a coach who supported me from my karting days all the way through to single-seaters."

4 | Best moment of your career so far?

"Winning the FIA Karting Academy Trophy in 2018. Everyone races in the same equipment, representing their country – it felt very special to win under those conditions. It was a proud moment for me."

5 | Earlier this season, you finished on the podium in Monaco in the F3. How was that?

"Unreal. Qualifying P3 felt amazing, but I wanted more. It's so hard to overtake in Monaco, and I felt I had the pace to win. Still, standing on that podium is something I'll never forget."

6 | Who inspires you most?

"Fernando Alonso, without a doubt. I might not be here without him. The way he motivates everyone around him to give their best is something I really admire and try to learn from."

7 | Have you met Fernando yet?

"Yes, in Barcelona recently, ahead of the Spanish Grand Prix. We took a photo and had a quick chat. I was nervous! He's been my idol since I was a kid. I don't normally idolise people, but he's an exception."

8 | What's your racing number?

"I'm running number 10 this year, but 64 is my favourite because it was my first number in racing and brings back special memories. I always choose it when I can."

9 | Any superstitions?

"Not really, though I tend to start things with my right foot or put my right glove on first. I believe more in hard work than in luck."

10 | Describe your driving style

"It's difficult to put into words. You really only see the true style in the data: how you use the brakes, steering and throttle. But I like attacking and fast corners."

11 | Favourite circuit?

"Silverstone. The layout, the speed, the atmosphere – everything. I also love the Hungaroring, but Silverstone has a special feeling."

12 | How many languages do you speak?

"Five or six! Spanish, Catalan, Aranese (from my region of Spain), French, English and some Italian. Living near the French border and working with international teams really helps."

13 | Tell us about your first car.

"It's actually my grandmother's old car. It was too big for her, so I took over. It does the job!"

14 | What car would you love to drive?

“Something fun, compact, with a bit of character… and of course, an Aston Martin!"

15 | What was your first job?

"Working on my family's farm. We've got cows, horses and dogs. I used to help out a lot when I was younger."

16 | Any pets?

"Two American Akitas. They're big, loyal and you definitely want to be on their good side!"

17 | Favourite food?

"Anything my grandma cooks – meat with potatoes and eggs, classic Spanish dishes. I also cook healthy meals when I can, like grilled chicken or scrambled eggs."

18 | Coffee or tea?

"Coffee in the morning. Usually a cappuccino. Otherwise, just water or a Coke Zero."

19 | What do you do to relax?

"Play padel. I've been playing since I was young, and I still play a lot. Lance [Stroll] is really good – we've had some fun matches."

20 | What's the dream?

"Becoming a Formula One driver and World Champion. If I wasn't racing, I would compete in another sport. I'm super competitive – I just need to be in the game."

Shaping the next generation

Aston Martin Aramco Driver Academy

From karting to single-seaters, the Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team Driver Academy is dedicated to identifying and developing the next generation of exceptional motorsport talent.

The Academy provides a clear path to the top tiers of racing through tailored racecraft mentorship, simulator work, physical training, media coaching and race weekend immersion.

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