Manerba del Garda, 16 April 2026. The World Young Drivers Academy (WYDA) continues to strengthen its structure with the addition of a highly respected name. Michele Merendino, a driver of vast experience, has been appointed as GT Ambassador.
Vision and dynamism are key elements of Merendino’s profile – qualities that align perfectly with the ambitions of the newly established academy, which embraces all aspects and disciplines of motorsport. With a distinguished career spanning single-seaters and, more recently, GT racing, where he remains actively involved, Merendino represents a key figure within WYDA. He will contribute his extensive expertise, including in the field of driver coaching.
“We are proud and honoured to welcome Michele to the Academy,” commented Paolo Montera, General Manager of WYDA. “With a long and successful career behind him, he certainly needs no introduction. His presence within our team gives both us and our drivers the confidence to aim high.”
The Italian driver, son of Alfonso “Apache” Merendino – winner of the final edition of the Targa Florio run as a speed race in 1977 – began his career in karting before progressing to single-seaters in the early 1990s. He enjoyed success in Alfa Boxer, before competing in Formula 3 and Formula 2000, claiming the Italian title in the latter in 1994. In 2001, he secured a Group N victory at the 24 Hours of Nürburgring and later competed in the FIA GT1 Championship alongside his brother Francesco.
His racing résumé also includes appearances in prestigious events such as the Monaco F3 Grand Prix and the 24 Hours of Daytona. His most recent outing dates back to 2020 in the 24H Series at Pergusa. A Lamborghini Accademia instructor, Merendino is set to contest the full GT Cup Europe season this year at the wheel of a car from the Sant’Agata Bolognese manufacturer.