Zak O'Sullivan, the former Williams Academy driver, entered the 2024 Formula 2 season with high hopes. He captured the Monaco feature race and the Belgian sprint, but funding gaps forced his withdrawal three races before season end. O'Sullivan, who claims he comes from a wealthy background yet cannot shoulder the millions required to reach F1, exposed the sport’s cost barrier.

O'Sullivan’s frustration grew when Williams offered only early‑season funding, leaving him to secure sponsors himself. He dubbed the rising expenses “motorsport inflation,” noting top kart chassis now cost $4,000 and team budgets jump from £180,000 to roughly £300,000. This steep climb means only those with substantial backing can progress beyond karting into higher series.

After leaving F2, O'Sullivan shifted to Japan’s Super Formula, accepting that F1 may no longer be realistic. Meanwhile, 16‑year‑old Maisy Creed, the first female champion of the PF International X30 series, battles similar financial hurdles. Using second‑hand chassis and a frugal budget, she aims for an F1 Academy test, proving talent can still outpace money when resources are stretched thin. today