The Motor Sports Association (MSA) is requesting applications from young British race and rally drivers seeking a place on the second intake of the FIA Institute Young Driver Excellence Academy.

The primary goal of the Academy is to prepare the most talented young drivers to compete at the pinnacle of the sport. In addition, it will increase skills in the area of driver and road safety and actively promote the principles of safety, fairness and responsibility both on and off the track. The programme is led by former Formula One driver Alex Wurz and 2001 World Rally Champion co-driver Robert Reid.

As a national governing body (ASN), the MSA is required to nominate two competitors from the applications it receives to the FIA Institute, which will select 30 finalists to attend a selection event in Austria in November, after which 18 will be chosen to join the programme.

Candidates should meet the following criteria:

1. Be aged 17 to 23 on 1 October 20112. Have consistently achieved outstanding results in their career so far3. Be in either:a. At least their first year of circuit racing in 2011, without having completed more than four years of competition (including the 2011 season)b. At least their second year of rallying in 2011, without having completed more than five years of competition (including the 2011 season)4. Be planning to compete in a national or international championship in 20125. Hold a valid MSA Competition Licence6. Be able to demonstrate higher than average levels of personal fitness

The full selection criteria and the application form are available from the FIA Institute website at www.fiainstitute.com. Completed application forms should be sent to Greg Symes at the MSA to arrive by close of business on Friday 9 September 2011.