P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Why £1 million won’t get you to F1
F1 continues to face scrutiny for its association with millionaires and rich kids due to the rising costs of motorsport. Despite Lando Norris’s hard work, his father’s wealth was noted as a key factor in his F1 success.
Many F1 drivers, including Norris, come from affluent backgrounds, sparking discussions on the accessibility of the sport to a wider range of participants.
Financial barriers hinder young drivers like Zak O’Sullivan from progressing in motorsport, as seen when he had to withdraw from Formula 2 mid-season in 2024 due to funding issues.
The high costs, estimated at £300,000 for a full karting season in 2021, continue to increase, making it challenging for talented drivers to secure seats without substantial financial backing.
Both drivers and F1 officials acknowledge the escalating costs but recognize the complexity of addressing the issue and bringing about systemic changes to make the sport more inclusive and accessible.
