Photo: CNW Group/Mercedes-Benz Canada Inc.
Mercedes-Benz Canada and Road to Racing have introduced a new scholarship program designed to help young Canadian racing drivers advance their careers in motorsport.
The Mercedes-Benz Youth in Motorsport Scholarship will provide one Road to Racing driver annually with $50,000 toward race funding, mentorship opportunities and professional development support. Alexis Baillargeon, a 14-year-old karting driver from L’Épiphanie, Que., was named the program’s first recipient during an event held in Montréal ahead of the Formula 1 Grand Prix du Canada.
“Receiving this scholarship is incredibly meaningful because it comes at such an important stage of my career,” said Baillargeon in a statement. “To be recognized by Mercedes-Benz Canada and Road to Racing, and to receive this kind of support, represents a huge opportunity.”
Alexis Baillargeon (Photo: CNW Group/Mercedes-Benz Canada Inc.)
The scholarship is part of Mercedes-Benz Canada’s Driving Your Future corporate citizenship initiative and builds on a partnership with Road to Racing that began in 2025. The automaker said the program is intended to help young drivers overcome financial and professional barriers that often limit advancement in motorsport.
Baillargeon has represented Canada at the Rotax World Finals five times and won Rok Vegas in 2023. He also became the youngest recipient of the Gilles Villeneuve Trophy at age 12.
“Mercedes-Benz has a long and proud motorsport legacy, and we believe in the importance of creating pathways for the next generation of talent,” said Susann Mayhead, President and CEO of Mercedes-Benz Canada.
The announcement comes as OEMs increasingly use motorsport partnerships and youth programs to strengthen brand engagement and connect with performance-focused consumers.
