Carving out a career as a driver in motorsports not only takes hard work and determination, but also requires a lot of money in most disciplines.
Many aspiring drivers get on the ladder in by competing in karting, where reusing old car parts on the vehicles is commonplace.
Some of those individuals dream of progressing into Formula One (F1), which is widely recognised as the pinnacle of the global motorsport scene.
With that in mind, read on as we delve deeper into how budding racers can break the glass ceiling and forge a career in professional motorsports.
Learning the basics
F1 drivers generally show aptitude for motorsports at an early age, and karting is a great platform for them to try and follow in their footsteps.
Young racers can hone their race craft in karting and develop the all-important strategic thinking skills which are required further up the motorsport ladder.
The ability to control a car in high-pressure situations is a skill which all racers need if they are to have any chance of progressing beyond karting.
Learning when to defend a position or overtake rival drivers are other crucial elements which are developed during the cut and thrust of kart races.
Investing in the future
Practice, dedication and experience are among the primary traits drivers require to progress into prestigious motorsport series such as F1.
However, money is also essential. Most racers rely heavily on sponsorships as they climb the ladder. A quick glance at the route from karting to F1 highlights the finances involved:
- Karting – up to $100,000 per year.
- Formula 4 – up to $300,000 per year.
- Formula 3 – up to $1.2 million per year.
- Formula 2 – up to $3 million per year.
Assuming a driver does not fast track their way through each level, a total outlay of more than $5 million is required to reach F1.
Gaining the FIA Super Licence
The road to acquiring an FIA Super Licence is arduous. Drivers require 40 or more Super Licence points from championship results in other Formula series.
Many drivers progress through junior academies, which gives them the chance to record the requisite 300 kilometres in a F1 car to secure the Super Licence.
While being part of an academy does not guarantee a seat in F1, it undoubtedly increases a driver’s chances of progressing to the big stage.
Red Bull runs one of the most successful academies in F1. It has produced numerous drivers who have established themselves in professional motorsports.
Exploring other roads
Given the limited number of seats available, F1 is a pretty exclusive club to gain entry into. However, there are several other viable alternatives budding racers could consider.
Rallying is open to drivers aged 14 and above, and offers an attainable route to a professional career at a lower cost than those associated with F1.
Adults with a full DVLA driving licence can buy a Go Rallying starter pack, pass a BARS test and then apply for a RS Inter Club – Stage Rally Competition Licence.
Once those elements are in place, drivers can compete in events staged across the country and start their journey to series such as the World Rally Championship (WRC).
The British Touring Car Championship (BTCC) is another option for drivers holding the appropriate licence, with the route to this starting in junior karting events.
Racing at BTCC level can be expensive and generally requires substantial sponsorship, but costs less overall than pursuing a career in F1.
