Ever wondered what Formula 1 drivers do in the hour leading up to the start of a race? Let’s break down the typical events that unfold during this crucial time. For our example, we’ll consider a race that starts at 14:00. The preparation begins an hour prior, at 13:00.
1 Hour Before Race: 13:00
At 13:00, a driver is most likely in their driver’s room. In European races, this room is often located in the hospitality suite. For flyaway races, it might be in a tent or a team suite, depending on the location. These rooms are functional, ranging from 10 to 40 square meters, and typically equipped with a massage table, storage for gear, and motivational decor on the walls.
Preparing Hydration: 13:00
By this time, the driver’s trainer has already provided the drink for the engineers to prepare based on the driver’s weight. If the engineers suggest a certain amount of fluid, the trainer may argue for more if they believe the driver needs it. This drink is usually added to the car at around 12:40, just before the driver’s seat is installed.
Driver’s Parade: 13:00
The driver’s parade occurs at 13:00. However, at certain tracks where there are no spectators, like Qatar, Baku, and Bahrain, the drivers may simply participate in a presentation on the pit lane instead.
Relaxation and Warm-Up: 13:00
In their room, a driver might be relaxing, getting dressed in their fireproof gear, or warming up. Pierre Gasly is often seen doing ball drops with his trainer, while Charles Leclerc might be skipping rope or kicking a soccer ball.
Transition to Garage: 13:10
At around 13:10, the drivers will head to the garage. They might pause for selfies or autographs before getting settled in. Once in the garage, they chat with their engineers and prepare for the final fitting of their race gear.
Weighing In: 13:10
Before donning their helmet and balaclava, drivers must be weighed. This is essential to ensure they meet the minimum weight requirement for their car. If a driver weighs less than required, ballast must be added to the car to comply with regulations.
Pre-Race Setup: 13:20
After weighing in, the driver puts on their balaclava, helmet, and hands device. They then enter the car with the help of mechanics, who strap them in securely. A screen in front of the driver displays vital data, including practice session information and onboard camera footage.
Practice Starts: 13:25
While in the car, drivers often practice their starts, aiming for an optimal clutch drop percentage, which helps the team set up for the race. This practice can significantly impact their performance at the start of the race.
Pit Lane Exit: 13:30
At 13:30, pit lane opens, allowing cars to exit the garage. Drivers will complete a series of laps, typically three to five, before returning to the grid. This time is crucial for final checks and ensuring everything is functioning perfectly.
Grid Arrival: 13:45
Once on the grid, drivers look for their crew members, such as the front jack operator and other support staff. They find their designated spot on the grid, where they will wait for the national anthem and final preparations.
Final Minutes: 13:55
As the time approaches for the national anthem, drivers may have a quick chat with their trainers. They hear announcements counting down to the anthem, which was moved back two minutes to give drivers a little more time before the race starts.
National Anthem: 14:00
After the national anthem, drivers head back to their cars, where they put on their gloves. At 14:05, the trainers leave the grid, and the driver has a moment alone to focus before the formation lap begins.
Formation Lap: 14:08
The formation lap starts a few minutes later, allowing the drivers to set everything up for the race start. They move to their grid positions, using signs and markers to ensure they are perfectly aligned.
Race Start: 14:03
Finally, the lights go out, and the race begins! The preparation has led to this moment, where all the hard work culminates in intense competition on the track.
FAQ
- What do drivers do in the hour before a race? They prepare physically and mentally, hydrate, and engage in warm-up activities.
- Why do drivers need to be weighed? To ensure they meet the minimum weight requirement for the car, as racing underweight is not allowed.
- What happens during the formation lap? Drivers complete a lap to set up their cars and check systems before the race starts.
- How do drivers prepare for their starts? They practice clutch drops and review data on screens to optimize their launch.