Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) issues, particularly sustainability, are becoming essential topics within the Formula One (F1) community. This focus on data-driven sustainability in F1 makes their approach relatable to businesses facing similar leadership, innovation, and ESG integration challenges.

What is Formula 1?

For those who may not be familiar, F1 stands for Formula 1, which is the highest international racing class for open-wheel, single-seater formula racing cars. Governed by the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA), it has been a premier motorsport since its inception in 1950. The term "formula" refers to a specific set of rules that all participating cars must follow, while the "1" designates it as the top-tier racing series.

Overview of Formula 1

Formula 1 Races:

Formula 1 consists of a series of races known as Grands Prix, held on various circuits worldwide, including purpose-built tracks and closed public roads. Notable track locations include Monaco, Silverstone, and Monza.

Formula 1 Teams and Drivers:

Currently, there are ten teams, each fielding two drivers, resulting in a total of 20 drivers competing in each season. These teams are comprised of engineers, mechanics, and strategists who work together to optimise car performance and race strategies. 

Current F1 Teams (2024)

  • Red Bull Racing, Austria 🇦🇹 Drivers: Max Verstappen, Sergio Perez
  • Mercedes, Germany 🇩🇪 Drivers: Lewis Hamilton, George Russell
  • Ferrari, Italy  🇮🇹 Drivers: Charles Leclerc, Carlos Sainz
  • McLaren, United Kingdom 🇬🇧 Drivers: Lando Norris, Oscar Piastri
  • Aston Martin, United Kingdom 🇬🇧 Drivers: Fernando Alonso, Lance Stroll
  • Haas, United States 🇺🇸 Drivers: Kevin Magnussen, Nico Hulkenberg
  • Alpine, France  🇫🇷 Drivers: Esteban Ocon, Pierre Gasly
  • Williams, United Kingdom 🇬🇧 Drivers: Alexander Albon, Franco Colapinto
  • Stake F1 Team, Switzerland 🇨🇭 Drivers: Valtteri Bottas, Zhou Guanyu
  • VISA CashApp RB, Italy 🇮🇹 Drivers: Yuki Tsunoda, Liam Lawson

Formula 1 Cars:

Formula 1 cars are engineered for speed and efficiency. They feature advanced aerodynamics that allow them to achieve high cornering speeds. They utilise hybrid power units that combine traditional combustion engines with electric motors.

Current Sustainability Trends in F1

In recent years, Formula 1 has focused on sustainability and innovation. The sport is transitioning towards more environmentally friendly technologies, including sustainable fuels and hybrid engines. Additionally, efforts have been made to enhance viewer engagement through rule changes to increase competition and excitement during races. Today, Formula 1 represents not just a sporting competition but also a complex interplay of technology, strategy, and human skill at the highest levels of motorsport.

ESG Factors in Formula 1

Formula One’s Sustainability Goals:

F1 aims to be carbon-neutral by 2030, reflecting a serious commitment to ESG principles. As part of its sustainability efforts, F1 plans to eliminate traditional petrol engines next season and switch to alternative fuels, such as hydrogen.

Reducing F1’s Carbon Footprint

F1’s sustainability focus extends beyond the cars themselves, which are a small part of the environmental impact. The “F1 circus” — the logistical operations, travel, and transport of equipment and team members worldwide — creates a significant carbon footprint. F1 is working on reducing air freight and considering shipping as a more sustainable alternative. Additionally, they plan to take fewer people to more events to further reduce environmental impact.

Data’s Role in Sustainability

Data analytics plays a key role in achieving sustainability goals. Teams like Haas (represented by Gary Foote, the CIO and Director of Sustainability) leverage data to improve race strategies and track progress toward sustainability targets. Data helps Formula One teams create efficiencies in racing and how they operate globally to reduce their environmental impact.

» EXPLORE: Top Data Science Speakers

Fan Base and Sustainability

F1’s growing, younger, and more diverse audience values sustainability highly. This demand influences how teams approach their operations and merchandise. F1 fans want transparency about the sustainability of merchandise, including its supply chain and eco-friendly credentials, pushing teams and the sport to align more with ESG goals.

Why book a Formula 1 speaker for ESG?

Formula One speakers like Gary Foote, Neil Martin, and Ruth Buscombe-Divey are in high demand for data analytics, technology, and sustainability topics. This is because F1 insights align with the needs of businesses beyond motorsport. Like every business, Formula 1 teams face ongoing challenges to improve their ROI, streamline operational efficiency, and enhance decision-making capabilities. These teams leverage cutting-edge technology, rapid innovation, and data-driven strategies, offering valuable lessons that resonate across industries seeking competitive advantage and sustainable growth.

What to read next?

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Written by Amber Parkin
Amber is PepTalk's Director of People Science and Learning. She has 20 years of international experience in the creative industries, including as a copywriter and Head of Customer Experience in the music industry, using storytelling to drive behaviour change. Amber holds an MA in Digital Management and an MSc in Organisational Psychology and is always looking for inspiration.