Virage Racing Academy and Motor Talent Show are pleased to announce the launch of a reality TV series focussing on Virage's highly successful driver development programme.

Beginning at the end of April 2013, 24 young hopefuls currently competing in karting will have the chance to participate in a pre-selection process for entry to the series. Taking place in Spain, these trials will see participants compete in kart races, as well as undertaking physical, mental and technical tests.

The 12 standout performers will be chosen to take part in the TV series which will include a full development programme with Virage, daily physical training and a diverse range of simulator and on-track driving aboard single-seaters and prototypes.

Broadcast across Europe, South America and the Middle East on national and international television channels, the series will offer each participant unrivalled exposure while the winner who will represent the most complete technical, physical and racing package also receives a fully funded seat in a single-seater championship.

Launched in 2010 by renowned GP2 race engineer Philippe Gautheron, Virage Racing Academy will provide a full compliment of technical and coaching staff for the series. Past members of the Virage training programme include Sergio Perez, Vitaly Petrov, Charles Pic, Giedo van der Garde and Johnny Cecotto Jr, all of whom have gone on to achieve great success at the top levels of world motorsport.

We are delighted to be organising this new television show, commented Gautheron.  We have already helped several drivers make their way to Formula 1, teaching them the attitude required both inside and outside the car. Indeed, the success of our programme has been demonstrated by four of our drivers stepping up to F1 in the past four seasons.

All of the TV series participants will receive the same training that brought success to our previous drivers, allowing us to decide who most deserves the chance to become a professional racer.

The series will be produced by Angel Tapia, who boasts over 20 years' of post-production experience and has been responsible for more than 500 advertising spots with major brands like Nike, Adidas, Mercedes and Audi, as well as some 40 feature films and television shows. Tapia sees the programme as a fantastic opportunity for young drivers, commenting: In addition to the strong career development offered by the Virage programme, all participants will gain worldwide coverage thanks to broadcasts in over 75 countries and a strong online campaign. As well as great training, they will also receive coverage which is fundamental for them in order to obtain sponsors for the future and establish a stable professional racing career.

Any driver aged between 14 and 18 and willing to take part in the pre-selection should contact Julien Gerbi on +34 689 402 895 or julien@virage.ws