Through our Make Friends or Die series, we’re exploring a new community each week to better understand why they matter, how they’re built, and how meaningful connections form beyond transactions.
The Formula 1 community has a diverse global fanbase that includes around 500 million fans, with a strong presence in Europe, the Americas, and Asia. Fans range widely in age, with a growing younger demographic due to initiatives like F1’s social media engagement and Netflix's Drive to Survive series, which has broadened the sport’s appeal among millennials and Gen Z. Fans are drawn to the sport’s intense competition, advanced technology, and international appeal. The community includes dedicated fans, casual viewers, and digital audiences on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, where F1 engages millions worldwide by sharing race highlights, team news, and behind-the-scenes content..
Q: How did you first discover the F1 community, and what makes it meaningful to you?
I was first introduced to the world of Formula 1 through co-workers who raved about Drive to Survive on Netflix. They assured me that I’d enjoy the series, highlighting the intense drama, good-looking athletes, high-stakes competition, and personal rivalries. Initially, I was skeptical; I thought racing was just “driving in circles” and didn’t consider it a real sport. But by the end of the weekend, I’d binge-watched the entire series and was completely hooked.
As I watched, I realized how much more Formula 1 involves beyond just driving fast. There’s a significant strategic component, from tire management to navigating the unique demands of each track and more. The series also opened my eyes to the technological advancements and precision that go into designing the cars. The real turning point, though, was seeing the drivers’ personalities. Each driver brought something unique to the sport, and I quickly found myself rooting for a few, hoping they’d succeed.
Once I finished the series, I wanted to learn everything about F1. I researched its history, learned technical terms, began watching older races, and followed the drivers and teams on social media. Eventually, my passion led me to attend the inaugural Miami Grand Prix—a surreal experience that deepened my connection to the sport and sparked my interest in attending more races.
When I joined this community, it also helped me connect more with my European friends since they were already fans and grew up more familiar with the sport. They helped me learn more, and we bond over our favorite drivers, react to races and breaking news, and even went to the F1 Arcade in London.
Q: What unites the community? What does the community stand for or against?
The Formula 1 community strongly values diversity, with 20 drivers on the grid and an increasing representation of talent from regions like South America and Asia. As a community, we are also committed to driver safety. Formula 1 is an inherently dangerous sport, and despite significant advancements, athletes have tragically lost their lives on track. This has strengthened our collective support for ongoing improvements in safety measures to protect the drivers.
Q: Where does the Formula 1 community typically gather, bothin-person and online?
The Formula 1 community gathers in several key places, both in person and online. Attending races is one of the most significant ways fans connect, providing a shared, exhilarating experience with fellow enthusiasts. Social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and X (formerly Twitter) are also popular for engaging with F1 content, sharing updates, and participating in discussions. Discord is another favored space where fans can join channels dedicated to race analysis, team discussions, and general F1 chatter.
Podcasts offer fans deeper insights into race strategies, team dynamics, and driver performances. F1 Arcades are unique venues where the community gathers in themed spaces with the data machines teams use, featuring race car simulators for competitive play with friends, and providing an exciting space to watch races. With food, drinks, and friendly competition, they create an immersive mix of racing excitement and social connection.
Q: What is a standout statistic or fact that captures the essence of his community?
A standout fact about Formula 1 is its remarkable speed and engineering precision. F1 cars can reach speeds of over 220 mph (354 km/h), and during a race, drivers experience up to 6 Gs of force—comparable to what astronauts feel during a rocket launch. This makes F1 one of the fastest sports in the world, requiring immense physical endurance from drivers.
Beyond the physical demands, the sport relies on the most advanced automotive technology. These speeds and technological innovations highlight F1’s cutting-edge advancements in aerodynamics, materials, and fuel efficiency. These developments often influence consumer car technologies, reinforcing the sport’s global impact and reputation for innovation.
Artifacts of the Sport
THE CHECKERED FLAG
The checkered flag marks the end of a race and celebrates victory, embodying the excitement, competition, and achievement in Formula 1.
DOCUMENTARIES AND BOOKS
Shows like Drive to Survive and driver biographies add depth to the community's story. They offer a closer look at the sport's culture, history, and key personalities.
TEAM APPAREL
Team uniforms, like driver suits and crew shirts, symbolize loyalty and identity. Fans wear team merchandise to show their support.
