F1 Explains

Mark Rushbrook, Global Director of Ford Racing, discusses Ford's exciting return to Formula 1 in partnership with Red Bull starting in 2026. He shares insights on the strategic reasons behind this move, focusing on technology transfer and the electrification goals driving their collaboration. The episode also explores Ford’s storied F1 history, the unique challenges of this latest venture, and how they plan to build a race-winning power unit. Listener Brian recounts his thrilling experience at the Las Vegas Grand Prix, offering tips for newcomers to F1 events.

Dan Towriss, CEO of the Cadillac Formula One team, shares insights on launching a new F1 team. He discusses their entry process and how the 2026 regulations could favor Cadillac. With experienced drivers Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez onboard, the team aims for reliability in its debut year while aspiring for championships in the long run. Towriss details partnerships with General Motors, engine strategies, and Cadillac's efforts to support American drivers like Colton Herta, marking an exciting new chapter in F1.

Laura Winter, lead presenter for F1 TV and seasoned broadcast journalist, shares insights on race coverage preparation. James Hinchcliffe, IndyCar victor and F1TV expert, details his thrilling first drive in an F1 car and the stark contrasts with IndyCar, especially regarding tyre behavior. They dive into Cadillac's anticipated impact on F1 in 2026, the dynamics of personnel poaching among teams, and how presenters prepare for race weekends, highlighting their research and on-site strategies.

Ayao Komatsu, Team Principal of the MoneyGram Haas F1 Team, shares insights on Haas's strategic partnership with Ferrari and how it shapes their competitiveness. He discusses the significance of Cadillac's entry into F1 in 2026 and contrasts private teams with corporate manufacturers. Courtney Crone, an F1 Academy driver backed by Haas, reveals how the team supports her development. The conversation also highlights how race engineers tackle car problems in real-time and the collaborative dynamics between rookie and experienced drivers.

Jolyon Palmer, a former F1 driver and current analyst, joins McLaren's race engineer Tom Stallard to delve into the fascinating world of F1 data. They discuss how drivers decode telemetry to enhance performance, and Tom reveals the sheer volume of data collected from sensors. Jolyon shares insights on how drivers balance instinct with data analysis, and they both emphasize the importance of collaboration within teams. From rival intelligence to the evolution of data usage since 2008, their conversation highlights the intricate relationship between performance and technology in Formula 1.

Join legends David Coulthard and Mika Hakkinen as they reminisce about their fierce McLaren rivalry and explore the dynamics of team mate title battles. They dive into how McLaren managed their tense rivalry in the late '90s and compare it to the current tensions between Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris. Discover the physical toll of braking in F1, humorous dog anecdotes related to the sport, and what jobs they might pursue if not for racing. Their banter reveals the balance between friendship and competition in the high-stakes world of F1.

Gabriel Bortoleto, the Brazilian racing prodigy and 2024 Formula 2 champion, dives into his thrilling rookie season with Sauber. He unpacks the strategic ‘lift and coast’ technique, revealing its secrets for conserving fuel and tires. Find out how drivers manage speed under a Virtual Safety Car and the importance of different engine modes in the pitlane. Gabriel candidly shares his experiences racing alongside Nico Hülkenberg and the challenges of transitioning from F2 to F1, as well as what he's learned from his mentor, Fernando Alonso.

Mike Vandament, an experienced F1 flag marshal, and Sydney Davis Yagel, SCCA representative, dive into the critical roles marshals play in keeping drivers safe at Grand Prix events. They discuss the various marshal jobs, from flagging to response during incidents, emphasizing the importance of communication with race control. Sydney shares how newcomers can get involved in marshalling and what qualities make for a good marshal. Learn the secrets behind quick recoveries and the teamwork needed to clear crashes efficiently!

Dr. Ian Roberts, an FIA medical delegate with a rich background in intensive care, teams up with Bruno Correia, a professional racing driver and medical car driver. They delve into the adrenaline-fueled world of F1 medical logistics. Learn how the medical car is always on standby, the impressive equipment used, and why it's considered the fastest ambulance. They share gripping stories about responding to crashes, driver reactions post-incident, and the evolving safety measures in motorsport. It's a riveting peek into their vital roles on the track!

Alex Albon, a talented driver for Williams and a rising star in Formula 1, dives deep into the thrilling world of night races. He shares how racing under the stars affects both visibility and strategy. Albon also opens up about the reality of celebrity life and its impacts on personal time and relationships. Curious about car numbers? He reveals how drivers choose them, including the meaning behind his own number, 23. Plus, discover the creative process behind his unique helmet designs, blending personal flair with team regulations.