British racing star, 18, forced to stop career after brain and lung cancer diagnosis

Young British motorsport starlet William Macintyre has revealed he is battling brain and lung cancer. The 18-year-old, who has been taking part in the GB3 Championship this year, announced on Wednesday that he is stepping back from racing "for the foreseeable future".

"Hi everyone," he shared on Instagram. "This is a very different post to usual, but I'll just spit it out. Over the past few months, I haven't quite felt myself and now it's starting to make a bit more sense as to why. I've been diagnosed with both brain and lung cancer.

"Sadly, it's as serious as it sounds! The amazing team at Milton Keynes Hospital have already been incredible in helping put a plan together for how I'm going to fight this. Unfortunately, this does mean I won't be racing for the foreseeable future.

"But rest assured, the second I'm able to, I'll be back behind the wheel where I belong. A massive thank you goes to my family and friends for their support and to everyone who continues to back me through this unexpected detour."

The revelation of Macintyre's condition sent shockwaves through the motorsport world, with the teenager receiving messages of support from numerous fellow Formula 1 hopefuls.

Formula 2 drivers Jak Crawford, John Bennett and Sebastian Montoya were amongst those to leave encouraging comments beneath his Instagram announcement. Macintyre, a Wroxham-born driver, has been competing in the GB3 Championship for two consecutive years.

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In his rookie campaign in 2024, he finished fifth in the standings, boasting three victories and six podium finishes. In the 2025 season, with six races under his belt, Macintyre is once again sitting fifth in the standings, trailing fellow Brit Deagen Fairclough by 11 points in the drivers' championship. Alex Ninovic is currently leading the pack with six wins to his name.

Following Macintyre's announcement, his GB3 Championship team, Elite Motorsport, released a statement. "It's important that we stand alongside Will Macintyre as he shares his journey," they said. "Over the past few months, Will hasn't quite felt himself and, following recent tests, he has now been diagnosed with both brain and lung cancer.

Anyone who knows Will knows the strength and determination he carries both on and off the track. With the incredible support of the team at Milton Keynes Hospital, a treatment plan is already in place, and the fight is underway. For now, this does mean that Will will not be racing, but his passion for the sport remains undiminished.

"The moment he's able, he'll be back behind the wheel where he belongs. As a team, our priority is to support Will and his family through every step of this challenge. Will is, and always will be, a huge part of Elite Motorsport. Together, we'll face this detour head-on."