Careers in Motorsport: Your Guide to Getting Started

January 2026

Motorsport isn’t just about drivers – it’s a fast-paced, technical, and dynamic industry with opportunities in design, engineering, technology media, hospitality, events, or data, and there are a variety of skills that could be transferable. For example, as a motorsport engineer, you could work in either design, testing, production or racing.

Whether you’re passionate about cars, racing, or technology, there’s a career path for you.

In this blog we explore exciting career paths in motorsport. Learn the skills, courses and experience you need to enter the world of racing.

Driving Careers

Driving isn’t just for professional racers. Many roles focus on testing, development, and performance.

Roles include:

Test & Development Driver
Simulator Driver
Automotive Performance Test Driver (performance cars)
Race Engineer (with former driving experience)
Professional Racing Driver (F1, GT, Rally)

Learn more: Motorsport Drivers’ Pathways: Getting Started in Motorsport: So You Wanna Be a Race Car Driver? – National Motorsport Academy

To gain driving experience, start with local races, track days, and test days to build skills and a race licence.

Engineering Careers

Engineering is at the heart of motorsport, combining innovation, mechanics, and high-speed problem solving.

Roles include:

Race Engineer
Trackside Engineer
Aerodynamics Engineer
Powertrain/Engine Engineer
Performance Engineer
Design Engineer

Skills required:

Technical Skills: (Coding, data, engineering principles)
Teamwork & Communication skills
Innovation and problem-solving
An interest in STEM
A passion for motor racing

Study suggestions: Focus on STEM subjects, then explore Motorsport Engineering or Mechanical Engineering degrees.

Useful links:

Data, Technology & Creative Roles

Modern motorsport relies heavily on data analysis, simulations, and digital design.

Roles include:

Data Analyst (Motorsports)
Simulation Engineer
Motorsport Games Designer

Tip: Learn coding, data analysis, or 3D design software to stand out.

Media & Business Roles

Promoting motorsport and managing teams requires creativity, communication, and organisational skills.

Roles include:

Journalist / Presenter
Marketing & Social Media Manager
Team Manager / Logistics Coordinator
Support and Administration

Hospitality & Events

Hospitality teams are essential in Formula 1, touring car championships, rally events, and more - offering food, VIP experiences, logistics, and accommodation for sponsors, drivers, teams, and guests.

Skills required:

Customer service
Event management
Logistics & coordination

Opportunities exist in: Formula 1, Touring Car Championships, Rally events, and more.

Education Pathways

Subjects to study at School & College:

Studying STEM (science, technology, engineering, maths) is a good idea. If you would like to become an engineer, you can explore different university courses such as Mechanical, Automotive, or Aeronautical disciplines.

A-Levels: Maths, Physics, Design & Technology
T Levels: Engineering, Digital Production & Development
Motorsport-focused colleges like Silverstone UTC

University Degrees

Motorsport Engineering
Mechanical or Automotive Engineering
Aeronautical Engineering
Automotive Design

You can find out more about degree courses here: Motorsport Engineering Undergraduate Degree Courses

Top universities:

Home | Loughborough University

Postgraduate study | Brunel University of London

Undergraduate Degree Courses | University of Southampton

Homepage | University of Bristol

Imperial College London

University of Cambridge

Get hands-on experience: Join Formula Student: Formula Student | Silverstone, help at local garages, or volunteer with junior race teams.

Apprenticeships & Work Experience

Teams offering apprenticeships:

Work Experience:

Work Experience at Atlassian Williams Racing | F1 Opportunities
Local garages, motorsport clubs, and karting events
Practical hobbies like mechanics, karting, or sim racing

Final Tips for Aspiring Motorsport Professionals

Build practical skills (mechanics, coding, data, or design)
Build experience through internships or volunteering
Take part in racing-related hobbies or competitions
Stay updated on motorsport news and technology
Network at motorsport events, open days, and online communities (such as LinkedIn).
Be persistent: the motorsport industry can be challenging to break into, so be prepared to persevere, even after rejection.

Useful Links & Further Reading

How to become an F1 engineer

??The Ultimate Guide to Jobs in Motorsport: Pathways, Skills, and Opportunities - Formula Careers

https://formulacareers.com/sector-1-motorsport-podcast/

Getting Started in Motorsport: So You Wanna Be a Race Car Driver? – National Motorsport Academy

Motorsport UK Inclusion Hub

How Motorsport Can Be A Rewarding Career Choice

From Kenya to Cranfield: A career in motorsport engineering - Cranfield University Blogs

?? An Essential Skill to Master for Motorsport Careers - Formula Careers

Motorsport engineer | Explore Careers | National Careers Service

Breaking into Motorsport: A No-Nonsense Guide to Chasing Your Dream - Formula Careers

Conclusion

Securing a role in the motorsport industry may be challenging, but it is achievable if you possess the required skills and experience along with a real passion for the industry. Start by exploring different roles, focusing on building your skills, and connecting with the industry through networking and experience. Hold on tight and get ready for life in the fast lane with a career in Motorsport!

At FutureSmart Careers, we have fully qualified careers advisers ready to help. Our mission is to provide careers guidance, knowledge and resources so that young people can make confident and informed choices about their futures. If you would like careers guidance or support for students in your school, college or child, please get in touch at: enquiries@futuresmartcareers.co.uk.

Images sourced by Freepik.