Juan Velarde

Calm under pressure. Driven by precision. Always a competitor.

Alongside his role as an airline captain, Juan Velarde has built a career across multiple disciplines of sport aviation — including air racing, aerobatic competition, freestyle airshows, and vintage aircraft flying. His journey into aviation traces back to childhood, inspired by watching his father fly.

His approach to racing is grounded in analysis and discipline, supported by a strong team philosophy: move in the same direction and enjoy the process together. Behind that mindset is a focus on preparation, clarity, and trust — both in the cockpit and within the team.

Before each race, his focus is simple: eliminate distractions and achieve complete mental clarity. That stripped-back approach translates directly into precise and controlled performance on the course.

“Every flight has a rhythm — sometimes smooth, sometimes aggressive.”

That adaptability defines his racing style. He adjusts continuously to conditions and competitors, making him difficult to predict and even harder to counter.

In the 2025 AIR RACE X season, Velarde finished sixth overall, building a foundation of experience within the championship.

But his target is clear.

“The pilot I most want to beat is Yoshi — because he’s the fastest.”

His focus is now firmly set on the front of the grid.