Formula 1 drivers are in a sport that requires a lot of talent and commitment to have any hope of success.While it may seem like a dream job, becoming a professional driver takes years of experience and a good amount of financial investment to climb the ranks to Formula 1.If you know the steps required to become a Formula 1 racer, you can fully assess the risks and rewards to decide if the sport is right for you.
Step 1: You can take a class at the school.
If you want to find out if Formula 1 is right for you, this is the way to go.It's ideal for racers who are new to the sport.You will get to drive a Formula 1 race car and learn some of the basics of racing.The most affordable way to learn about Formula 1 racing is through these classes, even though they have a large fee for a few hours of racing knowledge.If you are a minor, you will need parental consent to take these classes, and you must have a valid standard driver's license.You have to be able to drive a car with a manual transmission.
Step 2: Enroll in a racing program.
1-2 weeks of advanced classes will be required to hone your racing skills.Since you want to race in Formula One, you should look for a school that is approved by the licensing organization.
Step 3: You need a racing license.
Your school will send a letter of recommendation to a racing organization if you complete the required courses.This will allow you to register for a racing school event.
Step 4: There is a school race series.
The entry level race events give amateur drivers a chance to showcase their skills and get the attention of potential sponsors.You can get a car for the race events at some schools.You can win scholarships if you get your next level license.
Step 5: Go kart racing.
The best way for younger racers to get involved is through this method.The top Formula 1 drivers all started in racing carts.Buying a kart can be expensive, so if you want to try it out, you should visit a local kart track.
Step 6: You need a kart racing license.
If you apply for a license, you can start races to learn the sport.You will need to apply for higher licenses to get into more serious races.If you want to move up, you need to pass a test at an accredited school or be proficient in racing at your current level.
Step 7: Purchase your kart.
You need wheels if you are going to race.Before you move up to racing cars, you will need to buy or rent several karts, because there are different vehicles for different levels of race.
Step 8: There is a race.
Your racing career progresses quickly if you place well in races.You will reach the next level if you perform better.If you want to get to Formula 1, you need to race as much as you can and always be looking to move up.
Step 9: Two years in junior single seater racing events.
Formula 1 requires drivers to have experience driving similar vehicles.All racers must go through one or more of the junior levels to move up, even if there are many possible race series that can be your path to Formula 1.
Step 10: The age of turning 18 is 18 years old.
All Formula 1 racers have to be at least 18 years old to hold a license.Some younger racers are good enough to be considered for Formula 1, but will not be eligible until they reach the proper age.Gaining more experience in the junior single seater race series will add to your race points.
Step 11: Pick up 40 race points.
The points are obtained by placing in junior race series events.You need 40 points to get a Formula 1 license.
Step 12: Take a Formula 1 car and drive it for 300 km.
Drivers have to race in a recent Formula 1 vehicle for over 200 miles.The entire portion of this driving requirement must be completed within 48 hours.You have to take this test within 180 days of applying for your license.
Step 13: Accept the chance to drive for an F1 team.
An owner might want you to drive for their team if you have done well as an amateur.The teams are often owned by car companies.On a season-to-season basis, they usually sign their drivers.
Step 14: Get a sponsor.
Most Formula 1 drivers have sponsors that they need to work on.You need to have success on the track in order to get sponsors.In addition to your on-track work, you may have to do appearances or photo shoots for your sponsor.Racing is a very expensive sport, so drivers need to supplement their income whenever possible.
Step 15: Do you want to drive in F1?
Pay drivers are common in Formula 1.Instead of being paid by the race team, the driver uses money from sponsorships or their personal fortune to fund their racing operations.This isn't practical for most new racers in Formula 1, but it is an option if you can afford it.