“It’s A Podium For Sri Lanka” – Yevan David Proud To Fly The National Flag On The F3 Stage

by Staff Writer 10-07-2026 | 12:13 PM

COLOMBO (News 1st) - Sri Lankan racing sensation Yevan David said his historic Formula 3 podium finish was not just a personal achievement, but a proud moment for the entire nation, as the Sri Lankan flag was set to be raised on an international racing stage.

Speaking to News1st’s Buddmin Amaradiwakara, David reflected on the emotional moment after securing second place in a highly challenging FIA Formula 3 race during an F1 weekend.

“Honestly, I just put my head in my hands and I just couldn't believe what had happened because it had been such a tough race,” David said.

“Getting a podium in F3, especially in my rookie season, I was really proud of myself. But then I thought, I’ve actually got a podium in my rookie season. It’s a podium for Sri Lanka. It’s on an F1 weekend. The Sri Lankan flag is going to be on the podium. That’s going to be such a cool feeling.”

David described the final laps of the race as one of the toughest challenges of his career so far, as he battled intense pressure from drivers behind him while defending his position.

With nine laps remaining, David said he focused on staying calm and reminding himself that he could control the outcome.

“They were trying to overtake and I defended as much as possible. That was the toughest part because there was still a long way to go,” he explained.

After surviving multiple attacks, including a dramatic final-corner battle, David held on to finish in second place and secure his maiden F3 podium.

Reflecting on his journey from karting to Formula 4 and now Formula 3, David said the biggest message he would give his younger self was simple: believe in yourself.

“As a kid, I never thought any of this would even happen, let alone F3. I never thought we would be racing in Europe in karting or F4. But to have a podium in F3 now, my younger self wouldn’t believe it. I would tell him to believe.”

David also spoke about the overwhelming support he has received from Sri Lankans around the world, saying the presence of the national flag at races has been an incredible source of motivation.

“Even in Silverstone in the UK, there were a few Sri Lankan flags around the track. Pretty much every race this year, there’s been a Sri Lankan flag around the track,” he said.

“To know that there are people supporting me no matter where I go in the world, and of course back home on the island, is an incredible feeling.”

David added that his journey began with the support of only his family and close friends, but has now grown into a national movement.

“I started this journey alone and I was my own supporter along with my family and friends. But now I have a whole community, a whole country supporting me and wanting me to do well, out of pure passion for the country and the sport. That’s an incredible feeling.”

Encouraging young athletes and aspiring racers, David said passion and belief are key to overcoming challenges.

“Follow your dreams. No matter what you want to do in sports or in life, just follow that passion because it’s going to work out if you really want it,” he said.

David also discussed balancing his racing career with his A-level examination, admitting that managing both commitments has been challenging due to the demands of international competition.

Looking ahead, David said his focus for the remainder of the season is to continue improving, secure more top-10 finishes, and make the most of opportunities to achieve further podium results.

“The goal is to learn as much as possible this year, keep getting those top 10s, and then learn as much as possible to go for the championship next year,” he said.

With the Sri Lankan flag now flying on the global motorsport stage, Yevan David continues to inspire a new generation of young racers while proudly carrying the hopes of a nation.