Billy Monger still dreaming of F1

Billy Monger has said that his dream of reaching Formula 1 still stands, despite his injuries. During the 2017 season, Monger had his legs amputated after a heavy crash during a British Formula 4 race at Donington Park. 

The motorsport community came together to raise over £800,000 for the 18-year-old, who has since returned to driving. Monger has been at the Carlin team factory in preparation for his first F3 race at the end of March. 

Despite losing his legs, Monger still holds the dream of making it to F1: "It's been my dream to race in F1 since I was eight," Monger told the Daily Mail. "I don't see why that should change just because I've changed. It's a big challenge but I like to push myself. The accident has toughened me up and made me realise what's important. It's spurred me on to get to F1.

"I don't feel like my career path has changed. Before the crash we were looking at F3 as the ideal step up for this season. But I have to pinch myself when I think I've managed to get back to where I wanted to be after something so serious."

Monger has received support from various well-known motorsport racers, including Lewis Hamilton. Monger was invited to the Mercedes garage during the British Grand Prix weekend, and referred to the four-time world champion as a "good friend".

"He's been a good friend," he said. "I know he wants me to do well and is there to support me if I need him. I was star-struck when I first met him because he's my hero. I grew up watching him win world titles and I want to achieve similar things."