Daniel Oliver isn’t your typical driver. The Austin, Texas, resident didn’t start his racing career until age 29. 

“During Covid, I began sim racing. I took my personal car to the track and realized I could do this. I met another driver who gave me the information on how to get a license.” Oliver said. 

In 2024, Oliver attended the Radford Racing School and received his SCCA license. He raced Mazda B Spec in the United States to earn his FIA License. From there, he went to Europe racing in the Praga R1 Prototype.

“In two years, I went from Sim Racing to Praga. In six months, I went from a 60-horsepower Mazda to a 400-horsepower Praga. I’ll be driving an LMP3 in the IMSA VP Challenge for 2026. I’ll be doing the endurance races.” Oliver said.

His real passion is to help others find their way in motorsports.

“I grew up in Baltimore, and racing wasn’t popular. I was a fan and was interested. One of the issues is that there is a disconnect between racing and the fans. Many want to get jobs in motorsports, but don’t know how. I plan to change that.” Oliver said.

As a software engineer, he wants to let others know how many different jobs are available.

“I’m a software engineer, there are many jobs in motorsports don’t think about. That’s why I love doing TikTok, I answer every comment I can. If someone is genuinely curious about working in motorsports, I want to be the person who helps them.” Oliver said.

He also discussed how IMSA, as a series, is great for the fans.

“IMSA is a great fan experience. With a general admission ticket, you can get right up to the cars. Team will allow kids to sit in the cars, which makes lifelong memories. I love being a part of that.” Oliver said.

Daniel Oliver is a driver, a software engineer, a sim racing coach, and, most of all, someone who wants to help the next generation into motorsports. He is an example of never letting go of your dreams.

Image via Daniel Oliver