How To Become A F1 Driver ? — Caleb Omotunde
Source: https://medium.com/@calebomotunde/how-to-become-a-f1-driver-caleb-omotunde-7df0240563d2
Anyone who grew up watching Formula One on TV has probably wondered how to become a F1 driver. Do you know what exactly is required to start this career? If your dream is to become a Formula 1 driver, you should read this article carefully to find out if you can become the superstar you’ve always dreamed of.
START DRIVING: Well, first thing first, you need to start driving! Seems pretty obvious but we mean really use some time to train your direction. A great suggestion might be start a career in karting. Did you know that Lewis Hamilton, who is now one of the highest paid athletes in the world, had the beginning of his career in Karting. There’s one additional note you should be aware in this first step — learn how to use manual gearboxes. Oh Gosh, why? Well, in Formula 1, base-class cars, before reaching Formula 1, don’t have automation so you need to prepare yourself for that! After this first step, you will understand a bit better if this is an area you really love so you can start investing in specializations.
SPECIALIZATION: No! Driving a Formula 1 car is not only about talent, skills and driving, it has so much work behind it! For example, there are a number of specialization courses that are mandatory for anyone who wants to run. So look for one of the FIA accredited driving schools and take courses to master all the techniques. Well, let me say it right away, each course has a cost and it’s usually not cheap, that’s why is so important to understand if you really want to invest in this area. After all the educational background, you can apply for your Pilot License. After the registration you will be able to start participating in smaller championships. This is a good time to show off your talent and get a sponsor’s attention. Now pay attention — for each category you climb you’ll need a different driving license.
GETTING TO FORMULA 1: One of the basic requirements for getting to race in Formula 1 is to run for two seasons in the access categories. This means F1 only accepts drives that have enough experience in similar contexts. In addition, you will also need a certain amount of hours as an F1 driver and a few more points in the races you compete. Only then can you be called on by a team to be the starter and experience different situations on and off the track.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO BE A PILOT? Let’s put things clear, it’s not cheap to be a F1 driver! The good news is all our dreams tend to be cost — meaning it truly depends on how much you want it. Otherwise you can always use virtual games to experience this feeling. There is no exact calculation that shows how much you need to invest to be a Formula 1 driver. However, some expert estimates indicate that this sum is around $32 million. Well, quite expensive. But don’t ever Forget nothing is as easy as it seems on tv and no one should for bite you from follow a dream.
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