Daniel Patel has one more chance to bring his Gator Motorsports team to the podium. He’s not leaving anything on the circuit.
Gator Motorsports, a student organization founded in 1991, designs, builds and manufactures formula-style cars in its garage across from Gator Corner Dining Center. Members work all year to complete a car for the annual Formula Society of Automotive Engineers competition in Brooklyn, Michigan.
Patel decided to join the team at his freshman orientation in Summer 2022 after nervously browsing different organizations looking for people to meet. Four years later, the 21-year-old UF materials science and engineering senior is the team captain.
Patel is looking to lead the young group to its first podium finish since 2021 at the upcoming FSAE competition in May 2026. It’s his last chance to do so, as he plans to retire after this season to focus on school. He’s one of the youngest captains in the team’s history — but still the oldest among a freshman- and sophomore-dominated roster.
Patel said he’s on a mission to overcome recent struggles at the FSAE tournament, such as when last year’s car was unable to make it through the endurance test.
To support his fresh team, Patel is establishing monthly lectures for new members while growing personally as a leader and setting the foundation for future teams.