Formula 1 is a competition with a fierce level of competition so that its drivers must have high talent and commitment to be successful. While it may seem like a dream job, it takes years of experience and huge capital to become a professional driver and climb to the level of Formula 1. By knowing the steps required to become a Formula 1 driver, you can assess the overall risks and rewards and decide whether this path is right for you.
Step
Method 1 of 4: Learn to Race
Step 1. Take a racing class
This is the quickest way to determine if Formula 1 racing is right for you. This step is ideal for adult racers who are still new to this sport. You can immediately sit at the wheel of an F1 race car and learn the basics of racing. To gain a few hours of racing knowledge, this class does cost a fortune. However, it is the most affordable way to gain knowledge about Formula 1 racing before you start making commitments and investing large sums.
- You must have a driver's license for drivers to take this class, and you will also need parental consent if you are a minor.
- You must be able to drive with a manual transmission before entering racing class.
Step 2. Enroll in the racing program
This program is followed by taking high-level classes for 1-2 weeks to hone your racing skills. Since you're aiming to race in Formula 1, it's best to choose a government-approved school.
Step 3. Get a driver's license
After completing all the requirements, you will be sent a letter of recommendation to the race organization. That way you can register and compete in school-level racing competitions
Step 4. Enter the amateur interschool competition
This amateur level race is a golden opportunity for a racer to show off his skills and get the attention of sponsors. Some schools hold their own races and even provide race cars for the competitions. You can win scholarships and race points to get to the next level of license.
Method 2 of 4: Crawling Up Levels
Step 1. Try kart racing
This is the best way for young drivers to get involved in this sport. Most F1 drivers start from karting. Go-karts are quite expensive so visit a go-kart track in your city and give it a try first.
Step 2. Get a kart racing license
Some organizations will provide a beginner's license so you can take part in entry-level competitions to learn the sport. In order to participate in higher-level races, you'll need to keep trying to get higher licenses. You may have to pass an exam given by an accredited school first, or demonstrate racing proficiency at your current level before being allowed to advance to a higher level.
Step 3. Buy your go-kart
To be able to race, you need a racing car. There are different types of go-karts for different levels or races, and you may need to buy or rent a few karts before switching to racing cars.
Step 4. Take part in the race
Getting good results in racing plays an important role in improving your career. The better your performance, the faster you will level up. If you're planning to enter Formula 1, it's best to race as often as possible and always try to move on to the next level.
Method 3 of 4: Getting a Formula 1 License
Step 1. Complete two years in junior single seater competition
Formula 1 requires drivers to have a lot of experience driving similar vehicles. While there are many series of races to take to reach Formula 1, all drivers must pass one or more junior levels in order to advance to the next level.
Step 2. Be 18 years old
Formula 1 drivers must meet the minimum age limit to be eligible for a licence. Some young drivers are considered competent enough to compete in Formula 1, but are not allowed to participate until they meet the age limit. If you're still too young, it's a good idea to gain experience in the junior single seater racing series to increase your race points.
Step 3. Get 40 race points
These points are earned based on performance and race results in the junior race series. You have to earn 40 points in 3 years to get a Formula 1 license.
Step 4. Earn 300 hours of racing in a Formula 1 car
You must be able to drive a race car well in order to get a racing license. These racing hours can be earned during practice or test drives for race car manufacturers.
Method 4 of 4: Racing in Formula One
Step 1. Accept the offer to join the F1 team
If you've done well in the amateur class, there may be a team owner asking you to join. These teams are usually owned by car companies and have sponsors to cover their operating costs. Usually, these teams recruit new drivers every season.
Step 2. Get sponsors
Most racers have multiple sponsors and so have to do extra work off the track. To attract sponsors, you must have a positive reputation and image. You may have to make a public appearance or do a photo shoot for a sponsor next to a race on the track. Auto racing is such an expensive sport that racers should seek additional income whenever possible.
Step 3. Pay to race in F1
In racing, it is common to pay to take part in tournaments, including in Formula 1. Instead of being paid by teams, drivers use money from sponsors or personal property to fund race operations. While not ideal for most new racers, you can give it a try if you can afford it.
Tips
Developing a charismatic persona will go a long way in your career in the long run and help you find sponsors and funding
Warning
- Racing is a very expensive sport. Be prepared to spend a lot of money to get into Formula 1.
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Car racing always comes with a risk of collision injury. Think carefully about the potential dangers that exist before fully committing to this sport.
