Matthijs van Erven joins Williams Esports Academy.

The 2023 F1 Esports driver, Matthijs van Erven, has accepted an offer to become a part of Williams Esports Academy iRacing team for the 2024 season. This move signifies the beginning of a new phase in his professional career.

We are excited to welcome the incredibly talented 21-year-old Dutchman to our team. He made the decision to explore new career possibilities by making a switch in his sim racing platform. Over the years, Matthijs has demonstrated his exceptional skills in F1 Sim Racing through R8G Esports, Haas Esports, and Kick F1 Sim Racing, securing wins, numerous podium finishes, and top 10 standings in both the official and challenger series.

We sat down with this young star following his confirmed recruitment, to learn more about his career switch and his goals for his future at Williams.

How do you feel about being a part of the Williams Esports Academy programme?

“I’m thrilled and privileged to be a member of such a reputable sim racing team. They have an impressive setup from which I hope to benefit greatly. I’m eager to see what the future holds as they support my ongoing career.”

Can you share why you decided to take this new career route?

“This next stage of my career will be an all-new experience for me. I chose to step out of my comfort zone and immerse myself in a different discipline of sim racing.

“This wasn’t a hasty decision. I’ve always adored competing on the EA F1 platform at the highest level and couldn’t be prouder to have achieved what I have. However, in the past 2 years, I felt the game wasn’t providing me with the challenge I desired, which was affecting my motivation. Now, I’m ready to challenge myself in a fresh racing style and platform.”

What are your aspirations regarding the Williams Esports Academy?

“My main focus is to put in the work with my new teammates to achieve victories in special events and major championships. I aim to continuously do better and now my attention is on helping the Williams Academy excel and show our skills amongst the leading packs against our competitors!

“From a personal career perspective, I’m positive that partnering with Williams will provide opportunities for mutual growth both on and off the track. My goal is to prove my worth and eventually earn promotion to the main team.”

Both our Head Coach, Ben Hawkins, and the rest of the team are thrilled to welcome Matthijs into the Williams Esports Academy iRacing team. We’re excited to work closely with him in our high-performance and holistic environment to help him excel in both his racing career and day-to-day life.

Ben Hawkins – Head Coach:

“We are thrilled to have Matthijs van Erven join our team. He is versatile, exhibiting skills that cross different sim racing disciplines, such as the renowned F1 Esports championships and now iRacing.

“Matthijs’ adaptability and dedication to excellence make him an invaluable addition to our team. We’re committed to fostering his growth and supporting him personally, with the ultimate aim of unlocking his potential and achieving success together.”