F1 Beyond The Grid

The UK Prime Minister celebrates 75 years of Formula 1, highlighting its impressive £12bn contribution to the economy. Drivers and team principals share their excitement about the sport, with Oliver Bearman recalling the surreal feeling of stepping into Downing Street. Cadillac's upcoming entry into F1 is discussed, along with the importance of local engineering talent. A Mercedes aerodynamicist provides insights on breaking into the competitive world of F1, emphasizing resilience and the support available for aspiring engineers.

In this engaging discussion, Lando Norris, a rising star in Formula One and McLaren driver, shares insights into his journey towards becoming a world champion. He reflects on his growth since winning his first Grand Prix and the competitive dynamic with teammate Oscar Piastri. Lando also reveals how McLaren is evolving as a team and his strategies to maintain balance off the track. He chats about filming with Brad Pitt for 'F1 The Movie' and the significance of racing at Silverstone, while highlighting his evolving partnership with race engineer Will Joseph.

Brad Pitt, the acclaimed actor known for his diverse roles, discusses his thrilling journey becoming Sonny Hayes in F1: The Movie. He shares his adrenaline-pumping experiences driving with Lewis Hamilton and the intense preparation required for portraying a Formula 1 driver. Pitt reveals captivating anecdotes from the racetracks and how the sport's raw energy deeply inspired his character. He also hints at hopes for a sequel, leaving listeners eager for more insights into the fast-paced world of Formula One.

Isack Hadjar, known as 'Le Petit Prost', is a rising Formula 1 driver with a resilient spirit and a knack for mental toughness. He shares the story of his challenging debut in F1, where early setbacks molded his fighting mentality. Listeners will enjoy his insights on the tough transition from Formula 2 to F1, the pressures of competition, and the significant role of family support in his journey. Hadjar also reflects on his admiration for racing legends, revealing who he hopes to compete against in the fierce world of motorsport.

Emerson Fittipaldi, a two-time Formula One World Champion from Brazil, shares vibrant tales from his racing career. He discusses his pivotal decision to skip the risky 1975 Spanish Grand Prix and the critical safety measures he championed. Listeners will find his anecdotes about life with Enzo Ferrari and forming his own F1 team captivating. Emerson reflects on the fierce competition of today, drawing parallels with rising star Max Verstappen and sharing insights on the title race between Piastri and Norris.

Valtteri Bottas, a 10-time Grand Prix winner and current Mercedes reserve driver, discusses his aspiration to return to Formula 1 in 2026. He shares his excitement about the new Cadillac team entering F1 and weighs his options among several teams. Bottas reveals his reasons for rejoining Mercedes, his reflections on personal growth through racing, and the challenges drivers face. He also dives into his passion projects, including a gin brand, underscoring how his racing journey intersects with entrepreneurship.

Simone Resta, Deputy Technical Director at Mercedes, brings over two decades of expertise in F1 car design, including a prestigious stint at Ferrari. He dives into the thrilling challenge of preparing for the 2025 season while anticipating the major rule changes in 2026. Simone reflects on his unique journey from Minardi to Ferrari and then to Mercedes, emphasizing the importance of understanding driver feedback. He also shares insights on the resurgence of Italian talent in F1 and the dynamic team culture at Mercedes, showcasing the evolving landscape of the sport.

Dario Franchitti, a four-time IndyCar champion and three-time Indy 500 winner, shares why his Formula 1 dream never came to fruition despite several testing opportunities. He reveals the negotiations and pressures he faced while testing for McLaren and reflects on the impact of his racing idols, particularly Sir Jackie Stewart. Dario dives into the unique skills necessary for IndyCar driving, the emotional challenges of recovering from a crash, and the exhilarating differences between racing on ovals and street courses.

Mario Andretti, the 1978 Formula One World Champion, shares his incredible journey through the thrilling history of F1. He talks about the dramatic evolution of technology and safety in racing. Mario reflects on the legendary champions he's competed against, like Senna and Schumacher, while dissecting the qualities that made them extraordinary. He also discusses the exciting future of the sport with Cadillac's entry to F1 in 2026, underscoring the role of mental resilience and teamwork in this high-octane world.

Claire Williams, the former Deputy Team Principal of the iconic Williams F1 team and daughter of founder Sir Frank Williams, shares her heartfelt reflections on her family's 43-year legacy in the sport. She discusses the emotional challenges of selling the team and her pride in its history. Claire opens up about key moments, like her decision around George Russell's early career. Additionally, she emphasizes the importance of female representation in Formula One leadership and explores the evolution of team culture and individual driver dynamics.