Ruth Buscombe-Divey is one of Formula 1’s most respected race strategists, now working as an Analyst and Commentator for Formula 1 and F1 TV. Ruth’s expertise in data analysis and strategy management has made her a vital figure in helping teams optimise their performance in the highly competitive world of motorsport.
Her journey in Formula 1 began with a first-class honours degree from the University of Cambridge in Engineering, followed by a Masters thesis on the Drag Reduction System (DRS) for the FIA. This early research played an important role in shaping the DRS system, later introduced to improve overtaking in the sport. Ruth started her career at the renowned Scuderia Ferrari in 2012, first as a Simulations Engineer and later as a Race Strategist. During her time at Ferrari, she worked closely with drivers such as Kimi Raikkonen, Fernando Alonso, and Sebastian Vettel, playing a crucial role in Vettel's first win with Ferrari at the 2015 Malaysia Grand Prix.
Ruth went on to join the Haas F1 Team in 2015, helping the American team achieve a strong start with double points finishes in their debut season. She later moved to Sauber, where she served as Head of Race Strategy for eight seasons, working with drivers such as Charles Leclerc and helping to secure the team’s best Constructors’ Championship result in a decade in 2022.
Now a key figure in the Formula 1 media landscape, Ruth brings her deep knowledge of race strategy to viewers while also speaking at corporate events, where she explains the complexities of data-driven decision making in the high-pressure world of racing. Throughout her career, Ruth has been a passionate advocate for women in STEM and has served as an ambassador for the FIA Girls on Track initiative since 2016.
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Ruth Buscombe-Divey shares her insights into the critical world of Formula 1 race strategy. Drawing on her extensive experience with top teams like Ferrari and Sauber, Ruth explains how data analysis and split-second decisions shape race outcomes. Attendees will learn how strategic thinking under pressure leads to success on and off the track.
Since the late 1980s, Formula One has embraced a data-driven culture focused on marginal gains and continuous improvement. Teams use data to manage risk, optimize performance, and make fast decisions. Data analytics help drivers, engineers, and staff diagnose issues and solve problems, while robust security systems protect global information flow. Big Data's impact is accelerating with technologies like AI, machine learning, and additive manufacturing. Attendees will learn how F1 uses data to enhance all aspects of its operations.
