How to become an F1 driver

Becoming a Formula 1 (F1) driver is a long, demanding process that usually begins in early childhood. Here’s a general roadmap for a child aiming to reach F1:

1. Start Early with Karting (Ages 5-7)

Go-Kart Racing: Most F1 drivers begin their careers in karting at around 5-7 years old. Karting helps develop fundamental driving skills, quick reflexes, and racecraft.

Compete Locally: Start in local karting competitions to gain experience and skills.

Join Karting Clubs: Many racing clubs have karting leagues where young drivers can compete regularly.


2. Progress to National Karting Championships (Ages 8-12)

Move to Higher-Level Karting: By the time the child is 8-12, they should begin competing in national karting championships.

Get Noticed by Sponsors: If they show promise, they could be noticed by sponsors or karting teams who can provide better equipment and resources.


3. International Karting Competitions (Ages 12-15)

Participate in International Races: Talented drivers progress to European or world karting championships. These competitions are highly competitive and where many F1 teams start scouting talent.

Build a Reputation: Success at this stage helps drivers build a strong reputation and get noticed by talent scouts from racing academies.


4. Move to Junior Formula Racing (Ages 15-18)

Transition to Single-Seaters: After karting, drivers move to junior formula racing, such as Formula 4 (F4) or Formula Renault. These cars are faster and more technically advanced than go-karts.

Work with Racing Academies: Many F1 teams have driver academies (e.g., Ferrari Driver Academy, Red Bull Junior Team) that take on young talent and provide them with support and training.


5. Compete in Formula 3 (Ages 18-20)

Step Up to Formula 3 (F3): F3 is a key stepping stone toward F1. At this level, the competition is much stiffer, and drivers race on international circuits used in F1.

Continue Winning and Networking: Success in F3 increases the chances of securing sponsorships, support, or being picked up by an F1 team's junior program.


6. Move to Formula 2 (Ages 20-22)

Race in Formula 2 (F2): F2 is the final step before F1. The cars are very fast and similar to F1 cars, but with less advanced technology. F2 drivers often compete during F1 weekends, giving them exposure to F1 teams and the media.

Excel in the Championship: To stand out, a driver needs to perform exceptionally well in F2, ideally winning races or the championship.


7. Earn a Super License

Accumulate Super License Points: To compete in F1, a driver needs a Super License issued by the FIA. Points are earned through success in lower categories like F3 and F2.

Fulfill the Experience Requirements: Drivers need to have at least two years of experience in junior single-seater championships.


8. Join a Formula 1 Team (Ages 22+)

Get Signed by an F1 Team: This can happen either as a main driver or a reserve/test driver. Test drivers may get promoted to full-time seats if they impress during practice sessions.

Succeed in F1: Once in F1, the journey is far from over. The driver must consistently perform well to stay competitive and remain in the sport.


Other Key Factors:

Physical and Mental Fitness: F1 drivers undergo rigorous physical and mental training from a young age to handle the demands of high-speed racing.

Financial Backing: Racing is expensive. Having financial backing from sponsors or family is crucial to progress, especially in the early stages.

Networking and Connections: Building relationships with teams, sponsors, and talent scouts is vital throughout the journey.


Becoming an F1 driver is highly competitive, and only a few make it to the top, but with talent, hard work, and determination, it’s possible.