

F1 Explains
Formula 1
Your questions about Formula 1, answered by the experts. Katie Osborne and Christian Hewgill explain F1 with drivers, engineers and more of the amazing people behind-the-scenes.
Send your questions, voice notes and messages to F1Explains@F1.com
An official F1 podcast. For in-depth interviews with F1's biggest stars, listen to F1 Beyond The Grid. For race reviews and previews, listen to F1 Nation.
Send your questions, voice notes and messages to F1Explains@F1.com
An official F1 podcast. For in-depth interviews with F1's biggest stars, listen to F1 Beyond The Grid. For race reviews and previews, listen to F1 Nation.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jul 24, 2025 • 33min
Ask Stefano Domenicali – F1 President and CEO answers your questions
Being the boss of Formula 1 is a big job. F1 teams, drivers, race promoters, sponsors and more than 825 million fans worldwide rely on Stefano Domenicali to lead the sport forwards.
It’s a huge responsibility, so how does he keep everyone happy?
Speaking to Christian Hewgill, Stefano explains exactly what his job involves and how the role compares to his time as Ferrari Team Principal.
He also answers your questions about the cost cap, the calendar, the points-scoring system, the sport’s growth in the US and why Formula 1 is entering a new era in 2026.
And with so many exciting new additions to the sport in the last few years - like F1 Sprint, the spectacular Las Vegas Grand Prix, the trailblazing F1 ACADEMY, and F1 The Movie - what does Stefano think the next big thing for Formula 1 will be?
Get your question answered on the podcast
Send your voice notes and emails to F1Explains@F1.com
NET ZERO
F1 is on-target to be Net Zero by 2030. The sport has reduced its carbon emissions by 26% since 2018. Read more here.
F1 THE MOVIE starring Brad Pitt
NOW PLAYING
Get tickets now
It's All To Drive For in 2025. Be there!
Book your seat for a Grand Prix this season at tickets.formula1.com
Listen to more official F1 podcasts
In-depth interviews on F1 Beyond The Grid
Expert reaction before and after every Grand Prix on F1 Nation

Jul 17, 2025 • 36min
Esteban Ocon explains F1 training, post-race weigh-ins + racing focus
Esteban Ocon, a Haas driver and the tallest on the F1 grid, discusses the unique demands of F1 training. He shares insights about mental and physical preparation, revealing how drivers maintain focus during intense races. Listeners learn about post-race weigh-ins and the quirks of being a tall driver in a low cockpit. Ocon highlights his teamwork with race engineer Laura Mueller and reflects on his pre-race rituals. With entertaining anecdotes and a dose of humor, he offers a candid look at the life of a Formula 1 driver.

Jul 10, 2025 • 22min
Ask Ayao Komatsu LIVE at the British Grand Prix
Ayao Komatsu, team principal of Haas, dives into the fascinating world of Formula 1 at the British Grand Prix. He discusses how teams help new drivers adjust, sharing insights into the differences between rookies and seasoned pros. The fun takes a twist as listeners question whether playing Taylor Swift's music could help Ollie Bearman on the track. Ayao reflects on the unique challenges of Silverstone and the importance of mental focus during races. Tune in for a blend of racing wisdom and fan enthusiasm!

9 snips
Jul 3, 2025 • 52min
75 Years of F1: How the sport arrived and thrived - with Damon Hill + Alex Jacques at the British GP
Join 1996 World Champion Damon Hill and F1TV lead commentator Alex Jacques as they dive into 75 years of Formula 1. Hill shares personal anecdotes, including his rivalry with Michael Schumacher and memories of his father, Graham. Jacques explores the sport's evolution, from its dangerous beginnings to today’s enhanced safety standards. They discuss iconic rivalries, technological advancements, and what the future holds for F1. Their engaging banter captures the thrill and challenges of racing through the decades.

Jul 1, 2025 • 1min
This Friday: F1 Explains LIVE at the British Grand Prix
Get ready for the excitement at the British Grand Prix! A special live show will feature insights from Haas Team Principal Ayao Komatsu and F1 legend David Coulthard. They'll be answering fan questions, bringing insider perspectives and personal stories from the fast-paced world of Formula 1. Plus, there's buzz about the upcoming F1 movie starring Brad Pitt, set for release in 2025! Don't miss this unique opportunity to engage with the sport and its stars.

10 snips
Jun 26, 2025 • 29min
F1 commentary, team radio + qualifying questions - with Alex Jacques + Jolyon Palmer
Jolyon Palmer, a former F1 driver turned commentator, teams up with Alex Jacques, renowned for his engaging race play-by-play. They delve into the intricate art of F1 commentary, revealing what commentators see versus the audience. The duo decodes team radio communications, explaining the tactics behind qualifying strategies. They share amusing anecdotes about race day chaos and discuss how tire management affects lap times, all while sprinkling humor throughout their insights into the thrilling world of Formula 1.

Jun 25, 2025 • 29min
How F1 The Movie was made - with director Joseph Kosinski
Joseph Kosinski, acclaimed director of Top Gun: Maverick and F1: The Movie, shares fascinating insights into the movie's production. He reveals how it started with an email to Lewis Hamilton and the unique collaboration with real F1 drivers. The challenges of filming on actual race weekends are explored, alongside the creation of a custom Apex Grand Prix car. Kosinski discusses the immersive IMAX experience and how the team blended documentary realism with thrilling storytelling, capturing the exhilarating essence of Formula One racing.

Jun 19, 2025 • 41min
Planning your F1 trip - choosing a race, buying tickets + picking seats
Planning a thrilling Formula 1 trip can be a challenge! Discover tips on selecting the perfect race and snagging the best tickets. Explore the excitement of live racing versus watching at home, and hear personal anecdotes that highlight the vibrant fan culture. Learn about food options and hospitality packages that elevate the experience. Plus, get practical advice on seating choices, ticket strategies, and what to bring for an unforgettable race weekend. Don't miss exclusive opportunities like pit lane walks to fully immerse yourself in the F1 atmosphere!

Jun 13, 2025 • 26min
Lando Norris explains F1 driving styles, champagne slams + special helmets
Lando Norris, the talented McLaren Formula 1 driver, shares insights at the Canadian Grand Prix. He discusses his unique driving style, the secret to popping champagne on the podium, and the creative process behind his eye-catching helmet designs. Lando opens up about his breakfast preferences, why race days begin at dawn, and his ultimate dream to become a World Champion. Fun anecdotes and personal reflections make this an engaging listen for F1 fans!

Jun 5, 2025 • 32min
F1's greatest drivers + improving safety | Ask an F1 World Champion - with Sir Jackie Stewart
Sir Jackie Stewart, a three-time Formula One World Champion and safety advocate, shares insights from his legendary career and ongoing charity work. He discusses how F1 has transformed since the 60s and 70s, highlighting advancements in driver safety and the evolving techniques of racing. Jackie reflects on the greatness of past drivers like Juan Manuel Fangio and the importance of modern safety protocols. He also touches on his mission with Race Against Dementia, inspired by his wife’s battle with the disease, emphasizing his commitment to finding a cure.