Formula 1 drivers have chosen a highly competitive sport that requires a lot of talent and dedication to even hope for success. While it may sound like a dream job, you should know that it takes many years to gain the necessary experience and significant financial investment is required to become a professional Formula 1 driver. Knowing the steps required to become a Formula 1 driver will help you assess the risks and rewards to determine if this sport is really for you.
Steps
Method 1 of 4: Learn to drive
Step 1. Take lessons at a driving school
This is the fastest way to find out if Formula 1 is for you. It is ideal for older drivers who are new to the sport. You will be able to get behind the wheel of a Formula 1 car and learn the basics of racing. These lessons can come at a significant price for just a few hours of racing, but they are the most affordable way to gain knowledge about Formula 1 before deciding to make a larger financial investment.
- You must have a valid standard driver's license to take these classes. If you are still a minor, you will need permission from your parents.
- You must be able to drive a manual transmission car to take these classes.
Step 2. Sign up for a race program
These programs usually offer 1-2 weeks of advanced lessons to further develop your racing skills. Since your goal is to race in Formula 1, it is best to choose a school that is approved by a recognized organization.
Step 3. Get your racing license
After you have completed necessary courses, your school will write a letter of recommendation to a race organization. This will allow you to register for a racing event of this school and you will be able to compete with other drivers.
Step 4. Participate in amateur races
These beginners events are a great opportunity for amateur drivers to showcase their skills and attract the attention of potential sponsors. Some schools hold their own races and may even provide you with a car to participate in. You can win scholarships and race points towards your next license.
Method 2 of 4: Climbing up the rankings
Step 1. Try karting
This method is best for young drivers who want to get involved in the sport. Most top Formula 1 drivers started by racing karts. It can cost a lot of money to buy a kart yourself, but you can always visit a kart circuit near you and try it out first.
Step 2. Get a karting license
Some agencies will license every novice who signs up so that they can participate in novice races and learn the sport. To participate in more serious races you will have to keep competing for higher licenses. You may have to pass a test organized by an accredited school or you may have to prove your skills before you can step up.
Step 3. Buy your kart
If you want to race, you will need four wheels. Different vehicles exist for different levels of racing. You will probably have to buy or rent one or more karts before you can drive a race car.
Step 4. Take part in a race
By getting good results in races, your racing career will take great strides. The better you perform, the faster you will reach the next level. If you ever plan to race in Formula 1, you will have to race as much as possible and always look for a way to level up again.
Method 3 of 4: Getting your Formula 1 license
Step 1. Have participated in junior racing events for two years
Formula 1 requires drivers to have a lot of experience driving similar vehicles. While there are many possible races that could pave your path to Formula 1, all drivers will still have to pass through one or more junior levels in order to move up the rankings.
Step 2. Turn 18
Formula 1 drivers all have to be of a minimum age. Some younger drivers may be considered talented enough to compete in Formula 1, but they won't be allowed to until they reach a certain age. If you are still too young, then you should try to gain more experience in junior racing events so that you can collect more race points.
Step 3. Collect 40 race points
These points can be earned based on your performance and your place in the junior racing events. You must collect 40 points in a period of 3 years to obtain a Formula 1 license.
Step 4. Make sure you have driven a Formula 1 car for at least 300 hours
To be able to obtain a racing license you will have to be able to handle a car well. You can achieve this number of hours by doing test laps or test drives for car manufacturers.
Method 4 of 4: Racing in Formula 1
Step 1. Accept an offer to drive for a Formula 1 team
If you've performed well as an amateur, a team owner may ask you to ride for him or her. These teams are often owned by car manufacturers and have their own sponsors to cover the costs. Usually they always offer drivers a year contract.
Step 2. Find sponsors
Most Formula 1 drivers have sponsors who also require work off the track. To attract sponsors you will have to be successful on the track and leave a positive impression on the public. In addition to your track work, you may also need to appear at events or do photo shoots for your sponsor. Racing is a very expensive sport, so drivers have to look for extra income to add to their racing income.
Step 3. Pay to race in Formula 1
Paying drivers can be found in many different motorsports, including Formula 1. Instead of being paid by a race team, the driver can use sponsorship money or equity to pay for his or her racing activities. While this isn't practical for most new Formula 1 racers, you should know that it's an option if you're in the position to pay for it.
Tips
A polished image will be very helpful for your racing career and it will also help attract sponsors and investors
Warnings
- Racing is very expensive. Be prepared to spend a lot of money if you want to race in Formula 1.
- Race cars always carry the risk of injury from collisions. Carefully consider the potential dangers before deciding to pursue this career.