Written by Naira Tarek, Edited by Vyas Ponnuri
When we talk about culture, we talk about diversity, exploration, and life. Culture is the main core and essence of the world, and is present in all aspects of life. Now, diving into culture within Formula One, one of the biggest and most famous sports ever, it is a clear sight that the sport has never failed to shed light on the beauty of cultural diversity, and of every host country. Formula One taking people along with them to 23 rounds around the world this year has definitely increased and will continue increasing the exposure of each and every single country on the calendar. Through its races, they have perfectly showcased the beauty, architecture, and infrastructure of the countries that results in boosting tourism.
A great example would be the Singapore Grand Prix, which sees thousands of people all around the globe visit and attend the race, whilst spending a few more days exploring the city. The Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi is also a STUNNING example of Formula One integrating culture and infrastructure. The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix has specifically worked on its circuit to incorporate its design, to match the Arab culture and to reflect on the traditional Arab dhow, a sailing vessel widely used in the Arabian Gulf for centuries, and features it as a core Emirati and Arab cultural element. The intricate patterns of the circuit’s design are truly a symphony in motion!
Now, moving on to a very important terminology in culture, Cultural Exchange. Cultural exchange focuses on combining two or more individuals of different cultures and backgrounds, to interact with one another, and share various ideas and stories to enhance and heighten emotions, understanding, and respect for one another.
Formula One does an outstanding job at promoting cultural exchange all-year long, by bringing together diverse groups of people, possessing a strong passion for the sport, and this creates a safe environment for everyone to bond, showcase their local pride, and advocate diversity. And of course, creating a wide subculture in every country is a trait of Formula One that EVERYONE knows and adores.
The F1 subculture is in fact, the most fun out there, it is where fans unite and share their love for the sport on a daily basis, through an educative yet entertaining matter. This ranges from light-hearted content such as memes, to Formula One educative social media pages, to help newer fans get a grasp on the sport. Last, but most importantly, let us look at how F1 shaped gender equality. Gender discrimination is something all cultures have embedded within; however, improvements are currently taking place towards a societal and cultural change on this matter. A few years ago, females were less likely to be involved in the world of motorsport.
However, if you take a look at the industry now, you will find wonderful and strong-willed women, working day and night to provide a seamless futuristic work experience for the girls looking forward to joining motorsport. Some great examples are Lissie Mackintosh, Naomi Schiff, Elisabeth Lick, Marta Gasparin, among many other names.
The swift change in Formula One accepting more women in the industry has caused a ripple effect throughout the world. More industries and businesses have started leaning more towards creating a diverse culture, one where females are treated equally to males in the workforce.
The FIA, the governing force of Formula One, has implemented a very strict rule, requiring all teams to have AT LEAST one female member of staff in their senior management team, and overall work culture. This is a significant step towards a societal change, specifically in the motorsport industry, and also towards a lifelong gender inequality change.
The reasons for this step being implemented are very prominent, as it sends out a message of females being just as capable as men, that sports could have a great influence over societal issues, and encourages other industries to follow a similar mindset, provide guidance and inspiration for young girls willing to join the industry when they grow up. It isn’t a one-time thing or a one-time change, it has been there for a long time, and it just keeps getting better. Here’s to forever advocating gender equality!
In conclusion, Formula One is a sport that is constantly evolving, and shaping culture in a positive way. It is changing towards a better route in the industry, one where cultural impact and diversity take place in their most powerful state. As it continues to grow and evolve, do not be hesitant to take a part in the outstanding sport, be it as a fan, a potential employee, or even a future racing driver!
If you have a dream of becoming a part of Formula One, don’t let anything stand in your way. Chase your dreams and keep your head held up high, through the ups and downs of the journey!