Sam_Kupers

Alex is just six years old when he first steps into a go-kart — not because of a dream, but because of a birthday party.

But from the very first lap, something clicks.

What starts as a fun outing quickly turns into the beginning of a life-changing journey. Born and raised in Arnhem, the quiet and observant Alex doesn’t have a racing background, a famous name, or sponsors backing him. All he has is natural talent, unwavering focus, and parents willing to support him — even when the road gets tough.

Follow Alex as he trains, struggles, grows, and races his way through local circuits, youth qualifiers, and eventually into the spotlight of European motorsport. From rainy tracks in the Netherlands to the dream of Formula 1, his path is anything but easy.

But sometimes, pure talent is all it takes to ignite a legend.

"Please keep in mind that I use AI to help write this novel. I tried not to, but because of my dyslexia and the fact that English isn't my first language, I hope you understand. Thank you so much for reading this story!"

Path to F1 (Hiatus / Dropped)

Chapter 27 – A Race to Remember

Lelystad – KWM Racing Academy Track

The sky was clear, sunlight pouring over the Lelystad track like gold on grey asphalt. Engines sputtered to life, and the smell of fuel and rubber filled the morning air.

Alex stood beside his kart in full race gear, visor lifted. He stared at the grid where he'd start first today. Pole position. His first official race in the higher class.

He felt nervous. But also… calm.

Victor leaned closer. "This is just another session. Nothing changes except the people watching."

From behind the fence, Leo shouted, "GO ALEX!" so loudly a few mechanics jumped. Alex cracked the smallest smile.

The karts rolled out for formation laps. The sun glinted off helmets and bodywork as they weaved to warm tires.

Alex found his spot on pole. To his right, Daan glanced over. No words. Just focus.

Alex launched cleanly into Turn 1, holding the inside. Daan tucked in behind him, pushing him hard through the first corners.

By Lap 3, the gap was barely half a kart length.

Victor's voice echoed in Alex's memory:

> "Don't defend too early. Let them come, then shut the door."

Daan tried a lunge into Turn 4. Alex left him space — but only just enough. Wheels nearly touched.

Lap 6: Milan, who had started P3, caught up. Now it was a three-way fight.

Alex braked a fraction too late into Turn 5. The kart skittered wide. Daan slipped past.

He found better exits. Trusted the rear. Trusted the kart.

Lap after lap, he reeled Daan back in.

Through Turn 6, Alex took a wider line, carried more speed, and closed right onto Daan's bumper.

The crowd along the fence was screaming now. Leo was practically climbing the barrier.

Lap 14: Alex set up the move. Waited. Waited.

Lap 15: Final lap. Turn 5. Alex feinted right, then cut left. Daan moved to block — but too late.

He led the final corners. No mistakes. No panic.

He crossed the line, engine screaming, checkered flag waving.

Alex rolled into the pits, heart pounding.

"Well," he said, trying to hide his grin. "Looks like you're staying in this class."

Alex took off his helmet, hair plastered to his forehead. "I nearly lost it."

Victor shrugged. "But you didn't."

Daan came over. He stuck out his hand. "Nice move. See you next race."

Leo crashed into him a moment later, hugging him so hard he nearly fell over. "I TOLD YOU!"

Alex's parents stood nearby. His mother wiped her eyes. His father clapped him on the shoulder. "That was some driving, kiddo."

Alex looked out at the emptying track.

He didn't know where this road would lead.

First of all — thank you so much for reading Path to F1. Writing this story has been an incredible journey for me, and I've loved bringing Alex's world to life, from his first laps in Duiven all the way to racing at the front in Lelystad.

I've decided, after a lot of thinking, to end this novel here. Not because I don't love it anymore — but because I feel ready for something new. I'm planning to start a different story and I'm excited to explore new characters and new worlds.

To everyone who followed, commented, and encouraged me: you made this worth it. Thank you for your time, your support, and your passion for racing stories.

Maybe one day, Alex's journey will continue.

But for now, I'm waving the checkered flag.