Encouraging Diversity, F1 Launches Scholarships For Ethnic Minorities, Women And Underprivileged Families

F1 launches scholarships for underrepresented groups (Photo: Formula1.com)

JAKARTA - Formula 1 on Wednesday announced a number of scholarships and internship opportunities for under-represented groups in an effort to encourage diversity and inclusion in the sport of racing.

The move comes after a commission set up by seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton that aims to help increase the number of blacks involved in F1 published their report earlier in the day with 10 recommendations for change and some insights for the sport.

The message is loud and clear. @LewisHamilton reiterated how together we must drive for change, to tackle the major issues that we are facingWatch our full-length feature interview with him here ️#WeRaceAsOne #F1

— Formula 1 (@F1) July 14, 2021

F1 has launched three new initiatives following a personal contribution of $1 million from non-executive chairman Chase Carey.

"We want to be as diverse as our fan base and that's why we are taking direct action to ensure talented people from underrepresented groups have the best chance to enter, and build, fantastic careers in this incredible sport," said F1 CEO Stefano. Domenicali as quoted by Antara from Reuters.

A total of 10 students from underrepresented groups, including ethnic minorities, women and those from underprivileged families, are eligible for the engineering scholarship.

Each scholarship will fully cover the student's tuition fees along with an allowance. Educators will be selected from six universities, with 10 F1 teams committed to providing opportunities for work experience.

F1 will also provide two long-term internship opportunities for underrepresented groups this year with a focus on mechanical engineering.

The six interns from the group will also be offered a number of roles in F1, including short-term and long-term placements.