At just 17 years old, Yevan David captivated a packed press conference in Colombo with the poise of a seasoned professional. For Sri Lankan sports fans accustomed to cheering for international stars in the Premier League, NBA and Formula 1, Yevan is a breath of fresh air – a homegrown talent poised to make history as Sri Lanka’s first Formula 1 driver.
Displaying a maturity beyond his years, Yevan navigated a barrage of questions with ease, balancing his youthful enthusiasm with the professionalism expected of a rising star. “It’s an honour to represent Sri Lanka on the global stage,” he said, his voice filled with pride. “Carrying the Sri Lankan flag and showcasing our heritage in the world of motorsport is something I’ll always cherish.”
Yevan’s journey began at six years old, inspired by the exploits of Lewis Hamilton, the joint record-holder for seven Formula 1 World Championships. “When I started racing, it was just a dream,” Yevan reflected. “Watching drivers like Hamilton gave me the belief that maybe, one day I could follow in their footsteps.”
He took his first laps in a go-kart at Bandaragama in Sri Lanka before training in Singapore, where his skills quickly set him apart. “I remember the thrill of driving for the first time and from there, it just grew,” Yevan shared.
With over a decade in karting, Yevan transitioned to Formula 4 this year, marking a pivotal moment in his career. Competing in Spanish F4, F4 UAE and Euro Formula Open, he took on legendary circuits like Monza, Zandvoort and Spa-Francorchamps. “The leap from karts to cars was massive,” he admitted. “But with every race, I found my rhythm and to end the season with wins was surreal.”
Standing atop the podium at Monza, the home of Ferrari, was a defining moment. “Winning at Monza was unforgettable,” Yevan said. “Hearing the national anthem and holding the Sri Lankan flag was a moment of immense pride. It wasn’t just my victory; it was for everyone supporting me back home.”
Another breakthrough came at Zandvoort in Eurocup 3. “It was my debut on the track and everything felt new,” Yevan recounted. “Despite the challenges, I scored a rookie podium. That weekend was a turning point for me – it gave me the confidence to believe I could compete at the highest levels.”
Yevan’s pride in his heritage is evident in the lion emblem on his helmet, paired with Ferrari’s signature red – a nod to the team he and many Sri Lankans, admire. “The colours and the lion represent where I come from,” Yevan explained. “It’s a reminder of my journey and the support of an entire nation.”
Beyond racing, Yevan remains grounded, balancing his demanding career with academics as he prepares for his A-Level exams. A fan of Sri Lankan music sensation Yohani, he is every bit a teenager at heart. “I love coming back to Sri Lanka,” he said. “Visiting my family and reconnecting with my roots always gives me renewed energy.”
While Yevan draws inspiration from motorsport legends, his childhood was also deeply influenced by superheroes, particularly Batman. As a child, he wore a Batman cape everywhere – whether at the racetrack, during karting events, or even in school. “I loved Batman because he was all about using his intellect and skill rather than superpowers,” Yevan shared with a laugh. “In a way, that’s how I see myself in racing – working hard, learning and relying on my skills to get better.”
The cape has since been replaced by his racing suit, but his Batman story has become a beloved anecdote among his family, friends and growing fan base.
Yevan’s remarkable rise has not gone unnoticed on social media. With over 50,000 followers across Instagram, TikTok and other platforms, he’s emerging as a motorsport influencer. His Instagram, where he shares behind-the-scenes glimpses of his life on and off the track, is particularly popular.
“Social media is a great way to connect with fans, especially those in Sri Lanka,” Yevan said. “It’s incredible to see the support coming from people back home and all over the world. Their messages motivate me to keep pushing harder.”
In addition to racing content, Yevan often shares motivational posts and interacts with fans through Q&A sessions. “I want to inspire the next generation of athletes, no matter their sport,” he said.
Next year, Yevan will step up to Formula 3, the gateway to Formula 1. “Racing in F3 means more opportunities to compete on F1 tracks and weekends,” Yevan said. “It’s another step toward fulfilling my dream of racing in Formula 1. The journey is long, but I’m ready for it.”
Supported by Sportline Management and a dedicated team of coaches and engineers, Yevan credits his success to a collective effort. “What might look like my dream is the result of countless hours from so many people – my family, my team and everyone supporting me,” he said.
Yevan aims to inspire aspiring athletes in Sri Lanka. “I hope my journey inspires others to dream big,” he said. “If we can get more representation from our region, it will be amazing for the sport globally.”
Looking ahead, Yevan is optimistic about Sri Lanka’s motorsport future. “Having someone like Uncle Dilantha (Malagamuwa) pave the way has been inspiring. His advice and encouragement mean a lot to me,” Yevan revealed.
Racing runs in Yevan’s family – his father Yohan and grandfather Nirmal Ranasinghe were both involved in motorsport. “Their passion laid the foundation for mine,” Yevan said. “My father has been my mentor since day one, guiding me through the challenges and celebrations alike.”
Despite the high-pressure world of racing, Yevan remains unfazed. “Racing is not just about speed; it’s about precision, mental strength and resilience,” he explained. “Every race teaches me something new and that’s what keeps me going.”
As Yevan prepares to compete in F3 next season, he carries the weight of a nation’s dreams on his shoulders. Yet, he remains humble and focused, determined to make his mark in the fiercely competitive world of Formula 1.
“To represent Sri Lanka on the global stage is an honour,” Yevan said. “I’m proud of my roots and I hope to make everyone back home proud as I chase my dream of becoming a Formula 1 driver.”
Yevan is not just a racing prodigy; he’s a symbol of Sri Lanka’s potential on the world stage – a young jet-setter ready to conquer the circuits of Formula 1 with skill, determination and the unwavering support of a proud nation.
