F1 to offer scholarships for underrepresented groups in diversity push

The world championship launched its diversity and inclusion strategy in 2019 as part of its bid to boost diversity across F1, which included a personal contribution of $1million from non-executive chairman Chase Carey to finance scholarships for underrepresented students.

On Wednesday ahead of this weekend’s British Grand Prix, F1 confirmed details of its commitment, with the organisation offering several forms of work placement opportunities.

F1 has partnered with six UK and Italian-based universities to offer 10 engineering scholarships to students from underrepresented groups including ethnic minorities, women, and those from under-privileged backgrounds.

Each scholar’s entire tuition fees will be covered and they will also receive a living stipend. The students will be part of the September 2021 intake of undergraduate courses in the UK and Masters in Italy.

All 10 F1 teams have committed to providing the students with work experience opportunities during their time at university.

In addition, F1 will place two long-term apprentices from underrepresented groups within its organisation from September to have a focus on mechanical engineering.

Six interns from underrepresented groups will also be offered roles across the F1 organisation in 2021 across a range of short and longer-term placements on offer.

The announcement follows the publication of a study by The Hamilton Commission on Tuesday, which revealed stark diversity findings and laid out a series of recommendations to help improve opportunities for black and minority students.

“Formula 1 is a global sport with fans across the world,” said F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali.

“We want to be as diverse as our fan base and that is why we are taking action to ensure talented people from underrepresented groups have the best opportunities to get into, and build, a fantastic career in this amazing sport.

“I am delighted to announce that scholars, apprentices and interns will get the chance to fulfil their dreams in Formula 1 and I know they have amazing futures ahead of them. I want to pay particular thanks to Chase whose generous donation is funding the ten scholarships.

"Our #WeRaceAsOne platform is our commitment to make real change and shows our recognition that we know we must make a positive contribution to the world we live in,” he added.

“All of the teams are committed to this and the work of the Hamilton Commission shows the dedication to addressing these issues across Formula 1.

“Our focus is on Diversity & Inclusion, Sustainability and Community and we will continue to drive forward with our plans to be more diverse, more sustainable and leave a lasting positive impact on the countries and communities we visit.

“We know we must continue to move forward on these issues and the whole sport is united in doing this in the months and years ahead.”