I’ll admit it was Netflix’s Drive to Survive that sparked my interest in Formula 1 racing and introduced me to Will Buxton. I enjoyed his knowledgeable and dramatic commentary, and wasn’t surprised he was one of the show’s breakout stars!
For more than 70 years, Formula 1 has been the pinnacle of global motorsport, the ultimate test of machine and humankind. "It’s where technical genius meets sporting excellence," says Will. “Formula 1 is high-speed, high-stakes racing. Drivers do battle at over 200 mph, just millimeters apart, moments from disaster, combining incredible skill with awe-inspiring bravery in a singular quest to prove that they are the very best on their day and in their game.”
“As their competitive instincts sharpen, their desire and hunger to win against all odds and against all challengers becomes an intrinsic part of their personalities. Over time, through a combination of ability, experience, defeat, victory, perseverance, and prowess, their goal is to become the ultimate driver.”
“At their command are the fastest and most advanced open-wheel racing cars of all time. These rocket ships on wheels are comprised of thousands of unique parts, designed and manufactured specifically for racing by a team of thousands of people, whose own expertise is as essential to winning a race as is the craft of the racer behind the wheel. Hundreds of millions of dollars are spent in the pursuit of glory.”
But what does it really take to win? Who are the greatest drivers? How did Formula 1 become the global phenomenon it is, and what does the future hold? Will Buxton answers these questions and more as he journeys through Formula 1’s rich history.
He begins by exploring iconic race tracks around the globe, explaining the championships, the race weekend format, modern car regulations, safety equipment, training and travel. Will highlights the achievements of historical heroes including the first world champion, Giuseppe Farina and Ferrari icon Niki Lauda. He also showcases modern-day legends Sir Lewis Hamilton and defending champion Max Verstappen. Whether you’re interested in the evolution of car design, the art and science of the pit stop or a driver’s route to Formula 1, Will’s covers it all. However, as I continued through the decades, meeting notable drivers, I began to question the sport for its lack of diversity and inclusion.
“Despite Formula 1’s global appeal, it has been seen for much of its existence as an elitist pursuit, most usually embarked upon by upper-and-middle-class white European men,” says Will.
Since the early 2020’s, Formula 1 has been making a conscious effort for better representation and inclusion in all jobs roles within the sport, he says, citing examples. The future of Formula 1 also prioritises sustainability with the goal to be carbon zero by 2030.
In the Grand Prix, Will provides fans with everything they need to know about this fascinating sport. He expertly blends the past, present and future of Formula 1. Fully illustrated throughout, this hardcover history of Formula 1 will be devoured by new and longtime motorsport fans.
Reviewer: Andrea Molloy
Viking
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