The High-Stakes World of F4 Racing

Even at the introductory level of F4, the thrill and competition are fierce and palpable. Take, for example, the 2023 Formula 4 Italian Championship, where out of 50 ambitious drivers participating across 23 adrenaline-filled races, only six managed to taste the glory of victory. This level of competition emphasizes the brutal truth: F4 is not for the faint-hearted.

Across the ocean, the American counterpart, the F4 U.S. Championship, stands as a beacon for emerging racing talent. As we fast-forward to the 2024 season, now in its ninth year, we see innovation with the introduction of the Ligier JS F422 car powered by the Ligier Storm V4 engine. One could ask, does technology enhance the way these young talents interact with motorsport, pushing both man and machine to their limits?

Meeting the dynamic duo from Cleveland, 14-year-old identical twins Cash and Roman Felber, you can’t help but be intrigued by their journey. Their racing odyssey began in their very own driveway, at the tender age of eight, maneuvering around in Segway Karts. It’s almost poetic how a visit to the Austin Grand Prix in 2022 set their budding racing hearts alight. “We went to the Austin F1 race in 2022, and we both wanted to race. Our dad helped us figure out how we can,” reflects Cash, his eyes full of aspiration.

These aspiring racers haven’t looked back since, diving headfirst into prominent karting series like SKUSA KA100JR and USPKS KA100JR. Their determination knows no bounds as they press forward with extensive Formula 4 testing at various tracks across the U.S. Cash’s proud achievement of 3rd place in the FARA Formula 4 series in 2024, alongside Roman’s strong performances in the top five, highlights their growing prowess in this demanding sport.

Under FLBR Motorsport’s mentorship, the twins’ regimen extends beyond conventional training. They engage in advanced racing simulators, a tool akin to a modern pencil sharpening device, honing their skill sets through endless hours of practice on braking points, racecraft, and track layouts. It goes without saying, these simulators are not just gadgets—they are gateways to preparing young minds for the high-speed, high-stakes world of competitive racing.

The rigorous pre-race rituals of stretching and reaction exercises are as crucial as meditation for a monk. “I stretch before I go out. I also do reaction stuff and run through my pre-race mental checklist from Enzo Mucci, my coach,” shares Roman. Cash emphasizes the significance of physical conditioning, saying, “Go to the gym and do strength training, also cardio and core-specific. We also do a ton of neck exercises to prepare for the G forces.” It’s a testament that even in racing, the body is as much a vehicle as the car itself.

Their passion and drive are truly infectious. Roman notes, “Racing is all about small margins. If you’re a tenth of a second off, you could drop multiple positions.” The intricacies of each split-second decision on the track mimic life itself. As Cash reflects on his experiences, he adds, “You have to push yourself constantly because there are always 25 other drivers trying to beat you. The top five are the most competitive, and that’s where we aim to be.” The stakes are undoubtedly high, and these young lads are unfazed as they chase excellence.

In the cutthroat arena of F4 racing, the difference between success and failure can be as razor-thin as the width of a finish line. Roman captures this reality poignantly, “If you’re one-tenth off, you could be like 5th.” Indeed, Formula 4 serves as the launchpad for racers aspiring to navigate the labyrinthine path to motorsport stardom. With unwavering dedication, an unyielding competitive spirit, and insatiable work ethic, Cash and Roman Felber are not just poised for the next chapter; they’re writing their own narrative. The 2025 season promises not just an evolution but a revolution as they prepare to extend their racing endeavors into Europe and Italy, firmly planting their feet on the ladder of racing prominence.

In a world where mere fractions can chart your destiny, the Felber twins are ready to carve their niche. We stand on the sidelines, watching, waiting, and cheering for every tenth of a second that propels them closer to greatness.