The 2019 rookie might have had a rocky start to his career in Formula 1, but his return to the grid in 2022 with Williams Racing has landed him a top spot in fan’s hearts.
Born and raised in the UK, Alex races under the Thai flag – his mother’s home nation. His promotion into Formula 1 came from Toro Rosso where he spent just 12 races before being scooped up by Red Bull Racing.
If you’ve seen Drive to Survive, you know that Alex’s time with Red Bull came with turbulence, but it may not have been as dramatic as the series led viewers to believe. The season may not have been perfect, but Alex finished the season 8th in the Driver’s Championship with 76 points (Verstappen scored 97 points during the same 9-race period). He was awarded Rookie of the Year at the FIA Prize Giving Ceremony.
Alex drove for Red Bull Racing in 2020 before being demoted to Reserve Driver for the 2021 season.
In 2022, Alex rejoined the grid alongside new teammate Nickolas Latifi at Williams Racing. He went on to finish the season 19th in the Driver’s Championship, ahead of his Canadian teammate. Williams finished 10th in the Constructors Championship that same year.
Alex returned to Williams in 2023 on a multi-year contract and was joined by a new teammate, Logan Sargeant. Fans can rejoice knowing that he’ll return to the grid with Williams Racing on a multi-year contract extension
Off the track, Alex boasts an energy level that rivals the Duracell Battery seen on his car.
He’s overcome a difficult start to his F1 career to become one of the most loved faces on the grid. His fun, creative, and lively personality comes through in each aspect of his brand. From bleach blonde hair at the start of the 2022 season to a special edition Panda-designed helmet for the 2024 Chinese Grand Prix. With each new helmet design, brand launch, and Instagram post, Alex shares a bit more of his fun loving side.
Alex’s humor is equally matched by girlfriend Lily Muni He. A professional golfer (and total “cool girl”) often shares clips of the two across socials, even helping Alex record a recent partnership deal with CeraVe. It’s a good thing that Alex can laugh at himself because Lily will certainly be there to capture a picture to share with the masses (The Netflix Cup jokes anyone?)
While Alex leads with positivity, he hasn’t had the easiest journey. He faced difficult times with his family at just 12 years old. The turbulent time led to closer relationships between the family and Alex looks to his family for support to this day.
Alex’s story is a good reminder that success can come from anywhere and that we aren’t defined by our darkest moments. He also provides a strong reminder that when we lead with kindness and positivity, good things are bound to come back 10 fold.
Cait Lesko 
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