Inside Formula 1's Historic Diversity & Inclusion Charter

Formula 1, the world's premier motorsport competition, has broken entirely new ground with its comprehensive diversity and inclusion (D&I) charter.

All 10 of F1's teams have agreed upon the new charter, as well as the FIA and F1 itself.

The charter includes four major pillars:

• Attract
  
• Retain
  
• Create
  
• Engage.
  

These pillars outline the process by which the sport can bring in talent from all backgrounds, ethnicities, genders, religions and more, offering top opportunities in roles ranging from behind-the-scenes to the driver's seat itself.

A vision for inclusive motorsport

So, what exactly is the charter's goal? The mission is simple: "To enable anyone to access, contribute to and enjoy global motorsport."

This aspiration is underpinned by a mission to identify and remove barriers that have historically limited diversity within the sport.

Stefano Domenicali, President & CEO of Formula 1, speaks to the importance of diversity in the sport.

"Our sport is rightly recognised for its elite performance and innovation, and we are clear that the only way to maintain and improve those exceptional standards is to welcome diversity of thought, ideas and experiences," he says.

This charter is not merely symbolic. It is grounded in actionable commitments that aim to reshape the culture within Formula 1.

The initiative follows recommendations from The Hamilton Commission's 2021 report, which highlighted the need for the motorsport sector to improve diversity across all organisations.

This report was a collaborative effort led by Mercedes driver Sir Lewis Hamilton, in partnership with the Royal Academy of Engineering, and it seeks to address systemic barriers within the industry.

The four pillars of change in F1's new D&I charter

The charter is structured around four key pillars: Attract, Retain, Create and Engage. These pillars aim to guide concrete actions towards increasing representation from underrepresented groups in motorsport.

Under the 'Attract' pillar, F1 and its partners commit to gathering demographic data to improve talent pipelines and recruitment practices. This data-driven approach is intended to ensure that recruitment efforts are both effective and equitable.

The 'Retain' pillar focuses on mitigating bias and creating inclusive workplace cultures where diverse talent can thrive. By implementing processes designed to foster inclusivity, Formula 1 aims to cultivate an environment where all individuals feel valued and empowered.

The 'Create' pillar encourages diverse perspectives in product and service development, ensuring that innovation reflects a broad range of experiences.

Meanwhile, the 'Engage' pillar commits to ongoing communication with external stakeholders, promoting transparency and accountability in efforts to enhance inclusivity.

Dr Hayaatun Sillem CBE, CEO of the Royal Academy of Engineering, highlighted the charter's potential impact: "This charter sets a framework for progress and establishes commitment to both principles and action.

"It is a key step in F1's ongoing efforts to improve access and performance, and we believe it will be a catalyst for even more positive impact and cross-sport working."

F1's D&I initiatives

Formula 1 has already implemented several initiatives aimed at improving diversity within the sport. These include fully funded engineering scholarships for underrepresented groups and the launch of F1 ACADEMY, a female-only racing series designed to empower women in motorsport.

Such initiatives are crucial not only for fostering talent but also for changing perceptions about who can participate in this high-octane world.

The charter aims to build on these foundations by creating a more systemic approach to diversity and inclusion across all levels of the sport.

With an annual revenue exceeding US$12bn, Formula 1's commitment to diversity could have far-reaching implications not only for its own ecosystem but also for the wider motorsport industry.

As part of this initiative, representatives from Formula 1, the FIA, and all 10 teams will collaborate within an implementation group tasked with delivering measurable outcomes.

This group will introduce key performance indicators designed to track progress over time. Mohammed Ben Sulayem, President of the FIA, underscored the importance of this united approach: "The diversification of motorsport is paramount to its continued success.

"Through ensuring equal opportunity for equal talent, increasing accessibility and joining together in our commitment to uphold this charter, we will drive forward change."

Sir Lewis Hamilton was one of the driving forces behind this seminal moment.

"Honestly, so proud and grateful to FOM, to F1, who have really pushed to make sure that it's got across the line," Lewis explains.

"Obviously it's been three years in the making trying to push the sport in that positive direction," he continues.

Explore the latest edition of Sustainability Magazine and be part of the conversation at our global conference series, Sustainability LIVE. 

Discover all our upcoming events and secure your tickets today.

Sustainability Magazine is a BizClik brand