JourneyCareersRacing Driver
Global Career Guide (EN)From Engineering and Technology

Racing Driver

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Racing drivers and motorsport engineers work together to go as fast as possible on track. Drivers need quick reactions, nerves of steel, and absolute focus. Engineers design and build the cars that make it happen, testing every part to squeeze out extra speed and keep the car safe.

The role

What a racing driver actually does, day to day.

As a racing driver, you spend your days on the track, pushing a high-performance car to its limits. Your job is to drive as fast as you safely can, make split-second decisions at high speeds, and work with your team to improve performance. You will compete in races and tournaments, starting from smaller championships and working your way up to bigger events.

As a motorsport engineer, you design and build racing cars, or improve existing ones. You test every component - the engine, tyres, suspension, brakes - working out what changes will make the car faster or more reliable. Before and after races, you analyse data from the car's computers to find tiny improvements. You work closely with drivers and mechanics to make sure everything is working perfectly.

A typical week

Day to day

1Practise on the track, learning every corner and finding the fastest line through it.
2Study data from the car's computer with your engineers to spot where you can shave off time.
3Train hard in the gym to build the strength and stamina needed to handle high-speed laps.
4Talk through car setup with your team, suggesting changes to the brakes, tyres or suspension.
5Walk the circuit before a race to check track conditions and plan your strategy.
6Compete in races, making split-second decisions while overtaking rivals at high speed.
7Meet sponsors and fans, doing interviews and promotional work to support your racing career.