For most 14-year-olds, life revolves around school, sports, and friends. But for Arcadia High School student Giovanni Santora, life happens in the fast lane—literally. Racing cars at 165 mph, training on world-class tracks, and competing against some of the best drivers in the world, Gio isn’t just dreaming of a racing career; he’s living it.
From a young age, Gio’s passion for motorsports was undeniable. Starting with karting in Glendale, he quickly made a name for himself, representing Team USA at the World Finals in Bahrain. But his breakout moment came last summer when he won the FEED Racing Shootout in British Columbia, Canada. The victory earned him a one-week scholarship to the prestigious F4 FEED Racing Academy at Magny Cours Circuit in France, marking a major leap in his journey.
“When I first sat in the F4 car, I couldn’t believe it,” Gio recalls. “It felt unreal—knowing I’d be going over 160 mph on a track like Magny Cours. It was the biggest challenge I’d ever faced, but also the most exciting.”
As the youngest participant at the academy, Gio competed against 32 of Europe’s top drivers in his first experience driving an F4 car, complete with a clutch and paddle shifters.
“The car was a beast. It was so powerful, but once I got the hang of it, I realized it was just me and the track. That’s when I felt like I belonged.”
Though he didn’t advance to the semifinals, Gio performed exceptionally well, earning the respect of his coaches and peers.
“Every lap taught me something new,” he says. “It’s not just about speed—it’s about precision, focus, and understanding the car. I left Magny Cours feeling like a different driver.”
For Gio, racing is more than a sport; it’s a way of life.
“I love the adrenaline, the speed, and the challenge. But what I really love is the team aspect. Racing isn’t just about the driver. It’s about everyone—your mechanics, your coaches, your family. It takes a team to win.”
That sense of teamwork has shaped Gio beyond the track.
“Racing has made me more confident and social,” he explains. “When I first started, I was shy. But now, I’ve learned how to work with people, communicate, and push myself and my team to do better.”
Balancing life as a teen and an aspiring professional racer isn’t easy, but Gio is up for the challenge. Between rigorous fitness routines, track sessions, and studying engineering, he’s preparing for the demands of the sport.
“Fitness is huge in racing. I run a lot, play pickleball with my dad to work on hand-eye coordination, and even wear a weighted helmet to strengthen my neck muscles.”
However, Gio still embraces that inner 14-year-old kid.
“I ride my bike to school, hang out with friends, and listen to music. It’s important to find balance,” he says.
Looking ahead, Gio has ambitious goals.
“By 2026, I want to race in the European and UK series. I’d be the youngest driver to ever do it, which is exciting. But I also want to do well in school and make friends wherever racing takes me.”
And his dad, George, has been his biggest supporter every step of the way.
“From karting to F4, it’s been incredible to watch him grow—not just as a driver but as a person,” George says. “He’s worked so hard for every opportunity, and I know he’s only just getting started.”
As Gio gears up for the GT4 series, which will involve three-hour endurance races in Europe and UK, he’s ready for the challenge.
“The next six months will be about testing, training, and getting everything in place,” he says. “It’s a lot of work, but I’m excited to prove myself on the track.”
For Arcadia’s own racing star, the journey is just beginning. With his unwavering dedication, incredible talent, and passion for the sport, Gio is racing toward a future as bright as the headlights on his race car.
“Racing isn’t just a sport to me,” Gio says. “It’s my passion, my lifestyle, and my dream. I can’t wait to see where it takes me next.”
As he navigates the twists and turns of the racing world, one thing is certain: Gio Santora is a name to watch—and he’s speeding toward greatness.