Netflix’s ‘Drive to Survive’ Boosts Participation in F1 in Schools Competition
The ‘F1 in Schools’ competition, aimed at inspiring students to pursue science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) subjects, is experiencing a surge in participation, thanks to the Netflix docu-series ‘Drive to Survive.’
Organizers of the global not-for-profit program have reported a record number of teams registered for this year’s finals in Singapore, scheduled for September.
Founder Andrew Denford credited the popular docu-series with fueling the growing interest in the competition and the sport of Formula One as a whole. Denford highlighted the impact of ‘Drive to Survive,’ stating that more students are now enthusiastic about Formula One than ever before.
The program provides a platform for students to engage in hands-on activities related to the sport while fostering their passion for STEM subjects.
Participating school teams are tasked with securing sponsorships, creating business plans, designing and manufacturing miniature model cars, and delivering presentations before racing their creations. This year’s finals, held in the lead-up to the Singapore Grand Prix, will showcase a remarkable 68 entries from 60 countries, surpassing the previous record of 55 teams.
Denford highlighted the growing diversity and inclusivity of the competition, particularly in Saudi Arabia, where 68% of participants are girls. He emphasized the increased representation of female students, with three Saudi teams consisting predominantly of girls.
As part of the competition experience, all teams will receive garage and paddock tours, and have the opportunity to meet drivers. Each Formula One team and tire supplier Pirelli will also contribute a trophy or an equivalent recognition for the participants.
The ‘F1 in Schools’ program originated in Wakefield, Britain, in 2000, with just eight schools involved. Today, it has expanded globally, involving over 28,000 educational institutions worldwide. The program accommodates participants of all backgrounds and levels, from nine-year-old children crafting paper cars powered by bicycle pumps to older students shaping balsa wood cars fueled by gas canisters.
Denford expressed pride in the program’s extensive reach, citing its presence in diverse communities such as townships in Soweto and favela schools in Brazil. The program’s inclusive approach ensures that students from all walks of life can engage with the exciting world of motorsports and STEM education.
