We returned to Silverstone this week, ahead of the Formula 1 British Grand Prix weekend, to continue our work to break down barriers to opportunity for talented students and increase inclusion across STEM and motorsport industries.

On Wednesday, alongside Formula 1, we brought together F1 teams, young people, partners and industry experts at the Igniting Inclusion Summit, to explore the steps that need to be taken to improve access and support for talented students from underrepresented backgrounds into the sport.

Five years since the launch of the Hamilton Commission‘s landmark report ‘Accelerating Change’, the Igniting Inclusion Summit was an important moment to reflect on the progress made to increase access to F1 for young people from underrepresented backgrounds, and provide a clear outline of what more needs to be done.

The next day, we welcomed 40 students from Mission 44 partners AFBE-UK, upReach, Stevenage Borough Council, and Silverstone UTC, for an unforgettable day of learning and behind-the-scenes access, which kicked off at the Silverstone UTC campus, with a special meeting with Mission 44 Founder Sir Lewis Hamilton.

Speaking with the students, Lewis reflected on his own journey in Formula 1 and why creating greater opportunities for young people remains at the heart of Mission 44’s work. The students then shared their own thoughts on what needs to be done to improve access to STEM careers and build a more inclusive motorsport sector.

The group then headed into the heart of the Formula 1 paddock for an unforgettable afternoon. Students enjoyed an exclusive visit to the Scuderia Ferrari HP garage, gaining a behind-the-scenes look at one of the world’s most iconic Formula 1 teams and hearing directly from team members about the wide range of careers that exist within the sport.

Alongside the garage visit, students also had the chance to see the LEGO F1 minicars set to take to the Silverstone Circuit on Sunday’s track parade, and meet the engineers and designers behind the builds, asking questions about the creative process, technical challenges, and teamwork involved in bringing the one-of-a-kind racing cars to life.

Returning to Silverstone UTC, the day concluded with an interactive session delivered by Mission 44 partner IBM, where students explored how emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, data and digital innovation, are shaping the future of motorsport and creating exciting new career opportunities.

The inspirational day forms part of our wider work to open doors into F1 careers and build a more inclusive motorsport industry. Since launching in 2021, we’ve worked alongside schools, charities, and industry partners such as Formula 1 to create more inclusive pathways into great STEM careers, ensuring that talent – not background – determines a young person’s future.

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