F1 announces scholarship and internship plan to improve diversity
Formula 1 has unveiled its plans for a new scholarship, internship and apprenticeship program focusing on underrepresented groups in a push to improve diversity throughout the industry.
Thanks to a personal contribution of $1 million from Non-Executive Chairman Chase Carey to finance primarily, but not exclusively, engineering-focused scholarships for underrepresented students, Formula 1 has confirmed three new initiatives to help boost diversity in the sport.
The first will provide engineering scholarships for 10 students from underrepresented groups, including ethnic minorities, women, and those from under-privileged backgrounds.
Each scholarship will provide the full cost of a student’s tuition, together with a living stipend. The scholars will be part of the September 2021 intake of undergraduate courses in the UK and Masters (Postgraduate) in Italy.
All 10 Formula 1 teams have committed to provide work experience opportunities to a scholar during their time at university. The participating universities represent different regions within the UK and Italy, and each will run an independent selection process to determine the scholarship recipients.
Formula 1 Apprentice Program
Formula 1 will place two long-term apprentices from underrepresented groups within the organization in 2021. The apprenticeships will begin in September and have a focus on mechanical engineering.
Formula 1 Internship Program
Six interns from underrepresented groups will be offered roles across the F1 organization in 2021, with a mix of short and longer-term placements.
Two of the placements have already been assigned within the Motorsport and Marketing teams, with the other four being recruited over the coming weeks via multiple D&I partners, including BCOMS, who work with talented sports media enthusiasts looking to develop their career in media; Driven By Diversity, whose mission is to educate individuals and organizations on the value of diversity and inclusion in motorsport; and various other initiatives who train and nurture young people from underrepresented groups or with limited educational or employment opportunities.
A statement from Formula 1 said: “We believe that as a truly international sport we can make a difference by using our voice and determination to address these vital issues. Formula 1 is a sport that represents millions of global fans, and we want to take steps to ensure we are as diverse and inclusive in our own community as the communities we serve around the world.”
Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1 said: “Formula 1 is a global sport with fans across the world. We want to be as diverse as our fan base and that is why we are taking direct 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 10 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. 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.”