20,000 FIA volunteers power every Formula 1 season with €11-milion for training and support

The governing body’s first comprehensive study into volunteering across the championship quantifies the scale, value, and retention of the individuals who operate at the sharp end of race weekends, from marshals to incident response teams.

The research, conducted by FIA University, found that training and support provided to volunteers equate to more than €11-million annually, underlining the governing body’s financial commitment to sustaining the system.

The report confirms that volunteering remains embedded at the core of Formula 1 operations, with roles spanning flag marshals, observers, incident officers, and extrication crews.

It also highlights strong retention levels, with two-thirds of volunteers having served for more than 5 years, despite workloads increasing by 20 percent over the same period.

This continuity has been critical as the championship has expanded and intensified in recent seasons, placing greater operational demands on race weekends.

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem said: “The FIA Formula 1 World Championship relies on volunteers, they are the backbone of our sport – without them we simply could not go racing. They ensure our competitions are safe and fair. They act with professionalism and pride, and they support drivers, teams and fans.

“The FIA deeply values their contribution and this landmark report not only delivers vital insights into their role but recognises our significant investment and helps the FIA continue to provide support in the most effective ways.

“Together with our Members, and our volunteers around the world, we are powering the FIA Formula 1 World Championship.”

Beyond operational necessity, the report places a monetary value on volunteer contribution, estimating that their collective support is worth €13.2 million to the sport annually.

It also reinforces the cultural dimension of volunteering, describing it as a recreational activity that allows fans to participate directly in race operations while maintaining full-time employment elsewhere.

Carol Armstrong, the 2024 FIA Outstanding Official of the Year, said: “Over the past 14 years, I have volunteered at over 50 Formula 1 races and nothing beats the incredible atmosphere that is present in every paddock, marshals post and pit lane around the world. There is something so special about meeting new people who share such a deep love of the sport, all convening to play their part right at the heart of the action.

“I’m grateful that this report has not only measured the immense value volunteering brings to Formula 1 but also highlights the extensive training and development opportunities we receive at events. I strongly believe the recommendations will further enhance the volunteer experience and ensure volunteering remains an integral and cherished part of every Formula 1 race.”

The study concludes with recommendations aimed at strengthening long-term sustainability, including the creation of a Centre of Excellence to standardise recruitment and training.

It also proposes expanding the FIA Officials Department and introducing a formal volunteer charter to define minimum standards of support across all events.

With data gathered from 19 race organisers during the 2025 season, the report provides the first empirical baseline for evaluating the volunteer ecosystem that underpins Formula 1.

As the championship continues to grow, the findings reinforce a central reality: without this workforce, the modern Formula 1 calendar would not function.