F1: Beyond The Grid

Pat Symonds: spectacular, sustainable F1 tech

Mar 27, 2024

01:05:50

Snipd AI

World Championship-winning engineer Pat Symonds discusses his past successes with Schumacher and Alonso, working on sustainable fuel for future F1 cars. They talk about innovation in Formula 1, reflecting on ground-effect regulations and the evolution of car designs. The discussion highlights the enduring competitiveness in F1 and the importance of top drivers in shaping fan engagement. Symonds shares insights on the engineering challenges in F1 from the 1980s to the present day, emphasizing adaptability and fan engagement. The episode explores trust and professionalism in F1, reflecting on the controversial 1994 season and career crossroads faced by Symonds. The conversation concludes with reflections on performance and confidence in racing circuits and strategic considerations for Formula 1's future.

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Quick takeaways

F1 car design evolution emphasizes the balance between regulations and innovation, driving continuous performance improvements.

Formula One must effectively engage drivers, engineers, and fans to maintain a captivating and thrilling racing series.

Reflections on pivotal moments in Formula One history highlight the emotional impact and strategic decisions that shaped the sport.

Deep dives

Introduction of Formula One Background and Pat Simmons' Role

Formula One is a sport with a rich history and an exciting future. Pat Simmons, a key figure in Formula One for nearly five decades, has been a part of pivotal moments with world champions like Michael Schumacher, Fernando Alonso, and worked at the Tolman team in the 1980s. He currently serves as F1's chief technical officer, overseeing current car design rules and preparing for sweeping changes in 2026.

Introduction

2min

Shaping the Future of Formula One with Pat Symonds

11min

Evolution of Formula One and Enduring Competitive Mindset

2min

The Evolution of Formula One Engineering

13min

Importance of Drivers in Fan Engagement and Driver Qualities

6min

Dynamics of Trust and Professionalism in Formula 1

15min

Reflections on the Controversial 1994 Formula One Season

4min

Navigating Career Crossroads

7min

A Reflection on Performance and Confidence in Racing Circuits

3min

10.

The Departure of a Successful Racing Driver and Strategic Considerations for Formula 1's Future

8min

11.

Reflecting on Pat's Career and Technical Expertise in F1

4min

He’s a World Championship-winning engineer with nearly 50 years in Formula 1, but Pat Symonds’ focus is new innovation and F1’s next generation.

Pat scored title wins with Michael Schumacher in the 90s and Fernando Alonso in the 2000s. In the 80s, he helped a rookie Ayrton Senna get up to speed and take a stunning Monaco podium. Today, as Formula 1’s Chief Technical Officer, his task is producing spectacular racing - now and for years to come.

Pat tells Tom Clarkson about his past successes, his memories of working with great drivers and his future projects, including the sustainable fuel which will power a new breed of F1 car from 2026.

Book your seat at a Grand Prix
Tickets for the Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix 2024 are now on sale along with Japan, Miami, Imola and every other race this season. Head to tickets.formula1.com to buy now

More official F1 Podcasts
F1 Nation - race previews, reviews and analysis from the F1 Paddock
F1 Explains - your questions answered by the experts

This episode is sponsored by:
Salesforce: visit Salesforce.com/F1 to learn more about how Formula 1 wins fans and grows its global fanbase with Salesforce

Shopify: sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period at shopify.com/beyondthegrid

OneSkin: get 15% off OneSkin with the code GRID at https://www.oneskin.co/ #oneskinpod

Factor: head to factormeals.com/grid50 and use code grid50 to get 50% off

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F1: Beyond The Grid

Pat Symonds: spectacular, sustainable F1 tech

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

Deep dives

Introduction of Formula One Background and Pat Simmons' Role

Challenges and Innovations in F1 Car Design

The Intersection of Competition, Engineering, and Entertainment in F1

Reflections on the Controversial 1994 Season and Transition to 1995

Evolution in Team Dynamics Leading to Driver Transitions

Get the Snipd
podcast app

AI-powered
podcast player

Discover
highlights

Save any
moment

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Discover
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F1: Beyond The Grid

Pat Symonds: spectacular, sustainable F1 tech

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

Deep dives

Introduction of Formula One Background and Pat Simmons' Role

Challenges and Innovations in F1 Car Design

The Intersection of Competition, Engineering, and Entertainment in F1

Reflections on the Controversial 1994 Season and Transition to 1995

Evolution in Team Dynamics Leading to Driver Transitions

Get the Snipdpodcast app

AI-poweredpodcast player

Discoverhighlights

Save anymoment

Share& Export

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Discoverhighlights

Get the Snipd
podcast app

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highlights

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moment

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