F1: Beyond The Grid

Formula 1

Formula 1's fastest stars slow down and open up, sharing untold stories and unrivalled insight. Tom Clarkson brings you revealing, feature-length interviews and amazing anecdotes from superstar drivers, team bosses, tech geniuses and racing legends. Hit the follow button for the fastest way to get new episodes. For race reviews + previews, listen to F1 Nation. To learn more about how F1 works, listen to F1 Explains read less

Our Editor's Take

F1: Beyond the Grid is a podcast focused on Formula 1 (F1) racing. It features personal accounts from F1's biggest names. Anyone who considers themselves a fan of the sport finds a fun listen here. What goes through the minds of stars like Lewis Hamilton and Christian Horner? What does it take to manage a winning team? Host Tom Clarkson asks the questions on all listener's minds.

Journalist Tom Clarkson hosts F1: Beyond the Grid. He is an expert on Formula 1 racing. Here, he's putting his skills to work interviewing racing stars. Speaking to drivers, team bosses, and those in the pit, listeners get to know the sport like never before. Daniel Ricciardo discusses his challenges at McLaren and returning to Red Bull racing. Dutch motorsport racer Nyck de Vries reflects on his stunning F1 debut. And Mick Schumacher shares his thoughts on his rookie season. From his famous father's influence to gaining support from Ferrari, his story is sure to inspire.

F1: Beyond the Grid also talks to Danica Patrick. She says her first ambition was to be an F1 driver. Sebastian Vettel speaks about his decision to leave the sport after a stellar career racing for teams like Aston Martin. And Romain Grosjean reveals the flashbacks of his terrible Bahrain crash. This F1 podcast goes beyond the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix podiums. Listeners learn about the big moves and sacrifices that make a driver a world champion.

Tom Clarkson's interviewing style makes these episodes informative and entertaining. And it helps listeners better understand all the different aspects of the sport. From management to marketing, this podcast examines it all. F1: Beyond the Grid also discusses the latest developments in the sport. This show is an excellent listen for those who enjoy the thrills and drama of the fast-paced world of F1 racing.

read less

SportsSports

Start Here

Bernie Collins: strategy risks, racing rewards + the pressure of the pitwall

Bernie Collins: strategy risks, racing rewards + the pressure of the pitwall

She didn’t set out to be a Grand Prix-winning Formula 1 strategist, but Bernie Collins raced to the very top. She pulled the strategy strings at Force India, Racing Point and Aston Martin, masterminded an emotional race win with Sergio Perez, and guided Sebastian Vettel to his final F1 podium. Bernie tells Tom Clarkson how she and her fellow strategists prepared for races, reacted to the on-track action, and balanced risk and reward to get the best result possible. Bernie remembers her deep-end debut as a race strategist, how competing at the front of the field brings extra pressure, why working at one of F1’s smaller teams ‘made her career’ and what she learned working with Perez, Vettel and Jenson Button. Bernie also explains how an interest in maths and physics led her to study mechanical engineering at university, then to move into motorsport and, ultimately, reach Formula 1 This episode is sponsored by: Mercedes-AMG GT Coupe: learn more about the all-new AMG GT and the AMG portfolio at MBUSA.com/AMG. Indeed: claim your seventy-five dollar credit now at indeed.com/THEGRID

Bernie Collins: strategy risks, racing rewards + the pressure of the pitwall

Bernie Collins: strategy risks, racing rewards + the pressure of the pitwall

She didn’t set out to be a Grand Prix-winning Formula 1 strategist, but Bernie Collins raced to the very top. She pulled the strategy strings at Force India, Racing Point and Aston Martin, masterminded an emotional race win with Sergio Perez, and guided Sebastian Vettel to his final F1 podium. Bernie tells Tom Clarkson how she and her fellow strategists prepared for races, reacted to the on-track action, and balanced risk and reward to get the best result possible. Bernie remembers her deep-end debut as a race strategist, how competing at the front of the field brings extra pressure, why working at one of F1’s smaller teams ‘made her career’ and what she learned working with Perez, Vettel and Jenson Button. Bernie also explains how an interest in maths and physics led her to study mechanical engineering at university, then to move into motorsport and, ultimately, reach Formula 1 This episode is sponsored by: Mercedes-AMG GT Coupe: learn more about the all-new AMG GT and the AMG portfolio at MBUSA.com/AMG. Indeed: claim your seventy-five dollar credit now at indeed.com/THEGRID

Franz Tost: a leader who launched champions

Franz Tost: a leader who launched champions

He’s the second longest-serving Team Principal in the 2023 Formula 1 paddock, but after 18 years in charge of AlphaTauri and Toro Rosso, Franz Tost is hanging up his pitwall headphones. Ahead of his final race in Abu Dhabi, Tost sits down with Tom Clarkson to talk about the highs and lows of leading the team from its inception. Hear about Franz’s sometimes challenging relationship with senior team Red Bull Racing, his team's sensational Grand Prix wins at Monza in 2008 and 2020, and how he helped launch the careers of multiple World Champions, Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen. Franz gives his views on what's next for current AlphaTauri driver Yuki Tsunoda and 2023's stand-in star, Liam Lawson. Plus, the Austrian tells Tom which of the 17 drivers he’s worked with have impressed him the most and his five stages of development for rookies. Related Episodes Sebastian Vettel Pierre Gasly Yuki Tsunoda Liam Lawson Daniel Ricciardo Carlos Sainz Adrian Newey Mario Theissen This episode is sponsored by: Bitdefender: visit Bitdefender.com to learn more about how Bitdefender supports Ferrari to stay ahead of cyber threats and how YOU can make your digital life safer. Uncommon Goods: to get 15% off your next gift, go to uncommongoods.com/GRID Babbel: get six months free with a purchase of a 6-month subscription when you visit babbel.com/play, and use promo code GRID

Mario Andretti: 45 years since 78’s glory and grief

Mario Andretti: 45 years since 78’s glory and grief

This episode is sponsored by Call of Duty, Modern Warfare® 3. In 1978, racing against some of the best drivers in Formula 1 history, Mario Andretti became World Champion. His victory was a long-held dream, but it was darkened by the death of his teammate. Looking back 45 years, Mario remembers a season of intense emotions. He tells Tom Clarkson about his preparations for racing in Europe, his relationship with his visionary team boss, Colin Chapman, and how he made changes to the set-up of his Lotus to gain a crucial advantage over his rivals. Mario shares his memories of battling brake problems to win the championship at Monza, then learning that his teammate and close friend Ronnie Peterson had lost his life after a crash. Plus, Mario picks out the current F1 drivers who impress him most and remembers F1’s previous races in Las Vegas in the early 1980s.

Pierre Gasly: wanting to win again in 2024

Pierre Gasly: wanting to win again in 2024

Few drivers on the current F1 grid have experienced highs and lows like Pierre Gasly. The Frenchman returns to F1 Beyond The Grid for the first time since 2018, and there's plenty for him and Tom Clarkson to catch up on. Pierre reflects on losing his seat at Red Bull, the passing of his close friend Anthoine Hubert, and the day he became a Grand Prix winner. Now embracing a new challenge with Alpine, Pierre also discusses the ups and downs of his first season, his relationship with teammate Esteban Ocon, and his targets for 2024. Plus, hear what it was like to have dinner with all the drivers for Sebastian Vettel’s retirement in Abu Dhabi, and much more. Follow, rate and review F1 Beyond The Grid and share this episode using #F1BeyondTheGrid. Related Episodes Esteban Ocon Yuki Tsunoda Charles Leclerc This episode is sponsored by: Uncommon Goods: to get 15% off your next gift, go to uncommongoods.com/GRID Shopify: sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period at shopify.com/beyondthegrid

5 years since their last appearance... This week on BTG

5 years since their last appearance... This week on BTG

So much has happened since this week's F1 Beyond The Grid guest last sat down with Tom Clarkson for an in-depth interview. Get a preview of the episode here and listen to the full-length conversation on Wednesday 8th November. Know someone who'd love to listen to this? Use the share button and #F1BeyondTheGrid to tell them about it. For race previews and reviews listen to F1 Nation. To hear F1 experts answer your questions about the sport, check out F1 Explains.

Enrique Bernoldi: the unsung driver from one of F1’s greatest rookie classes

Enrique Bernoldi: the unsung driver from one of F1’s greatest rookie classes

This episode of F1 Beyond The Grid is brought to you by Salesforce, the Global Partner of Formula 1®. Visit Salesforce.com/F1 to learn more about how Formula 1 wows fans and grows its global fanbase with Salesforce. With no World Championship points from 28 Grand Prix starts, it’s fair to say Enrique Bernoldi’s Formula 1 career took a very different path to Fernando Alonso, Kimi Räikkönen and Juan Pablo Montoya – his fellow rookies in 2001. But the Brazilian still grabbed plenty of headlines during his brief stint in the fast lane with Arrows. Hear why Enrique was at the centre of a decision that changed the course of Red Bull’s F1 existence, and the gripping tale of his heated encounter with Ron Dennis at the Monaco Grand Prix in 2001. Plus, Bernoldi tells Tom Clarkson why he didn’t succeed in F1, what led to his fallout with teammate Jos Verstappen, and much more. Follow, rate and review F1 Beyond The Grid and share this episode using #F1BeyondTheGrid. Related Episodes Heinz-Harald Frentzen, one of Enrique’s teammates at Arrows

Liam Lawson: thrilled but ‘unfulfilled’ by F1 debut

Liam Lawson: thrilled but ‘unfulfilled’ by F1 debut

This episode is brought to you by GetYourGuide – home of unforgettable travel experiences, including a behind-the-scenes tour of the McLaren Technology Centre. Go to GetYourGuide.com to book now. Liam Lawson passed his first Formula 1 exam with flying colours in 2023. His performances in Daniel Ricciardo’s absence vindicated Red Bull’s faith in the New Zealander and suggests we’ve not seen the last of him in an F1 car. ‘Frustrated’ at not having a seat on the grid for 2024, Lawson is clearly very determined to return to the pinnacle of motorsport as soon as possible. He tells Tom Clarkson how he felt when receiving the call-up at Zandvoort, what he’s learned from the five Grands Prix he raced in, why he wants to inspire young racers in New Zealand, his hopes for 2024, and much more. Follow, rate and review F1 Beyond The Grid and share this episode using #F1BeyondTheGrid. Related Episodes Yuki Tsunoda, Liam’s teammate at Alpha Tauri Daniel Ricciardo This episode is sponsored by: Indeed: start hiring now with a $75 sponsored job credit to upgrade your job post at indeed.com/THEGRID.

'2023's surprise package' - This week on BTG

'2023's surprise package' - This week on BTG

Once you've had a taste of Formula 1, you just want more! This week's guest on F1 Beyond The Grid reflects on a surprising debut and tells us he's hungry to claim a full-time seat in the future. Enjoyed this preview? Hear the full episode on Wednesday 25th October. Share using #F1BeyondTheGrid For race reviews and previews, listen to F1 Nation. To hear F1 experts reveal the inner workings of the sport, listen to F1 Explains.

Andrea Stella: transforming McLaren

Andrea Stella: transforming McLaren

This episode of F1 Beyond The Grid is brought to you by Salesforce, the Global Partner of Formula 1®. Visit Salesforce.com/F1 to learn more about how Formula 1 wows fans and grows its global fanbase with Salesforce. Andrea Stella’s first season as McLaren Team Principal has been pretty phenomenal when you compare their start to the season to where they are now. After finishing outside of the points in five of the first eight races, both Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri are now fighting for podiums almost every week. So how have they produced such an incredible turnaround in performance? Stella provides Tom Clarkson with a revealing insight into the culture he’s creating at McLaren, and how his experience of winning World Championships with Michael Schumacher at Ferrari can help him make the team a winning machine. Hear why he describes Schumacher as the ‘emotional engine’ during their time together, what made Ferrari so dominant back then, and why they weren’t able to repeat that success with Fernando Alonso later on. Plus, Stella tells us Norris and Piastri’s greatest strengths, what fans can expect from the Papaya outfit in 2024, and much more. Follow, rate and review F1 Beyond The Grid and share this episode using #F1BeyondTheGrid. Related Episodes Lando Norris Oscar Piastri

Vitantonio Liuzzi: chasing a ‘life-changing’ F1 podium

Vitantonio Liuzzi: chasing a ‘life-changing’ F1 podium

This episode is brought to you by Bitdefender, Team partner of Ferrari. Visit Bitdefender.com to learn more about how Bitdefender supports Ferrari to stay ahead of cyber threats and how you can make your digital life safer. Red Bull were midfield minnows in the early years of their F1 mission to becoming the serial World Champions they are today. But during those humble beginnings, the team was renowned for nurturing young talent like Vitantonio Liuzzi. The Italian drove for Red Bull and their sister outfit, Toro Rosso, among others in a Formula 1 career spanning 12 years. Liuzzi was unable to replicate the success he had at junior level, but looks back at his time in the sport with fond memories when speaking to Tom Clarkson. He talks about Red Bull’s party reputation, politics within the team, his sour exit from Toro Rosso in 2007 and a number of missed opportunities to finish on the podium. Plus, hear Liuzzi relive his famous victory over Michael Schumacher in the Karting World Championship finals. Follow, rate and review F1 Beyond The Grid and share this episode using #F1BeyondTheGrid. Related Episodes David Coulthard, Vitantonio’s teammate at Red Bull Christian Klein, Red Bull’s first F1 prodigy Scott Speed, Red Bull’s American prodigy Sebastian Vettel, Vitantonio’s teammate at Toro Rosso Adrian Newey, the genius behind Red Bull’s transformation into World Champions

George Russell: happier, hungrier + ‘holding his own’ with Hamilton

George Russell: happier, hungrier + ‘holding his own’ with Hamilton

George Russell’s first two seasons at Mercedes have certainly had their ups and downs. He’s become a Grand Prix winner and enjoyed a few bottles of champagne on the podium in that time, but the team are far away from fighting for World Championships. George says he can see a ‘light at the end of the tunnel,’ though. He’s proven his worth to the eight-time Constructor Champions and is fully confident he’ll be ready to capitalise when their car becomes competitive again. Speaking to Tom Clarkson, George says he’s in a much happier place now, after embracing a new attitude towards Formula 1 over the summer break. George also talks about taking up freediving in his spare time, how invested his family are in his F1 career, why teammate Lewis Hamilton has pushed him to new levels, and much more. Follow, rate and review F1 Beyond The Grid and share this episode using #F1BeyondTheGrid. Related Episodes Gwen Lagrue, the man who found George Russell, on finding F1’s future stars Toto Wolff This episode is sponsored by: Mercedes AMG-SL. Test drive the AMG SL today at your local authorised Mercedes-Benz dealer or learn more at MBUSA.com/AMG-SL

'I'm in a much happier place' - This week on BTG

'I'm in a much happier place' - This week on BTG

Off-track happiness often leads to on-track success, and Tom Clarkson's guest this week says they're enjoying life in F1 more than ever. Check out a preview, then catch the full in-depth interview on Wednesday 4th October. Share using #F1BeyondTheGrid. Follow the podcast so you get the episode fast.

Adrian Newey: legendary F1 designer

Adrian Newey: legendary F1 designer

This episode of F1 Beyond The Grid is presented by Paramount+. Explore the full mountain of entertainment on offer at Paramount+ today and find your next favourite show at paramountplus.com Adrian Newey is one of the greatest Formula 1 designers of all time. During his time at Williams, McLaren and Red Bull Racing, Newey’s cars have won 12 Constructors’ titles and seven different drivers have become World Champion in his masterpieces. More than 40 years on from the start of his career, he’s created the championship-winning Red Bull that has completely obliterated its opposition and ripped up the history books in 2023. Speaking to Tom Clarkson, Adrian explains why they’ve been so dominant this year and the thought-processes he goes through when designing an F1 car. He reflects on how and when his passion for designing began, where his competitiveness comes from, why he’s had so much success over a long period of time, and much more. Follow, rate and review F1 Beyond The Grid and share this episode using #F1BeyondTheGrid. Related Episodes Christian Horner, Red Bull Team Principal on masterminding Red Bull’s return to the top

Inside the mind of an F1 genius - this week on BTG

Inside the mind of an F1 genius - this week on BTG

An all-time F1 great is Tom Clarkson's next guest on F1 Beyond The Grid. Listen here for a preview. Hear the full conversation on Wednesday 27th September. Share using #F1BeyondTheGrid. Follow the podcast to get the episode as soon as it's released. Listen to F1's other official podcasts: F1 Nation for race reviews and previews F1 Explains answers your questions about the sport and explores how F1 works

Mick Doohan: a five-time World Champion on two wheels

Mick Doohan: a five-time World Champion on two wheels

From 1994 to 1998, Mick Doohan transcended motorbike racing as he won the 500cc World Championship five years in a row. Like Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen in modern times, Mick was often invincible on the racetrack and dominated his class. The Australian also knows Formula 1 inside out. He’s spent more than 30 years in the paddock and, with his son Jack looking to climb from F2 to F1, he’s still ever-present today. Speaking to Tom Clarkson, Mick discusses how his winning mentality compares to some of F1’s greatest champions. He talks about his very close friendship with Michael Schumacher, what it was like to test a Williams car in 1998, Jack's development with Alpine, how two wheels compares to four, and much more. Follow, rate and review F1 Beyond The Grid and share this episode using #F1BeyondTheGrid. This episode is sponsored by… Babbel: go to babbel.com/podcast23 and use promo code BEYOND for an extra three months free with a purchase of a 3-month subscription. Factor: Head to factormeals.com/btg50 and use code btg50 to get 50% off. Santander: want to win exclusive Formula 1 experiences and money-can’t-buy prizes just by answering questions about F1? With Santander Lap Zero, you can be in with a chance. For more information, competition rules, full terms and conditions, and to enter, go to santanderlapzero.com or search Santander Lap Zero.

Gwen Lagrue: finding F1's future stars

Gwen Lagrue: finding F1's future stars

Ever wondered how your Formula 1 heroes are found in the first place? Well, George Russell, Esteban Ocon and Alex Albon may not be on the grid today if it wasn’t for the keen eye of F1 talent guru Gwen Lagrue. He’s the Frenchman in charge of Mercedes’ junior driver programme, with a track record of uncovering hidden gems and helping them fulfil their potential in the pinnacle of motorsport. Speaking to Tom Clarkson, Gwen talks about the traits that separated Russell, Ocon and Albon from others in their early karting years, what qualities he’s looking for when scouting young drivers, how regularly a future World Champion comes along, and some of the protégés currently on Mercedes’ radar. Plus, you’ll hear the thoughts of Mercedes Team Principal, Toto Wolff, on their recruitment strategy and whether Max Verstappen could have ended up at the team in different circumstances. Related Episodes Alex Albon Esteban Ocon George Russell Toto Wolff This episode is sponsored by: Mercedes AMG-SL: test drive the AMG SL today at your local authorised Mercedes-Benz dealer or learn more at MBUSA.com/AMG-SL Santander: want to win exclusive Formula 1 experiences and money-can’t-buy prizes just by answering questions about F1? With Santander Lap Zero, you can be in with a chance. For more information, competition rules. full terms and conditions and to enter go to santanderlapzero.com. That’s santanderlapzero.com or search Santander Lap Zero

Nico Hulkenberg: focusing on family and F1

Nico Hulkenberg: focusing on family and F1

Nico Hulkenberg will be on the grid again in 2024 after securing another year with Haas. At the 2023 Mexican Grand Prix, the German will reach a landmark 200 Grand Prix starts – accumulated from his time at Williams, Force India (now Aston Martin), Sauber, Renault and Haas. So how is ‘The Hulk’ that races today different to the 22-year-old that made his debut in 2010? Nico tells Tom Clarkson how family life and his recent break from F1 have given him a completely different outlook on the sport, what his relationship with teammate Kevin Magnussen is like, whether Team Principal Guenther Steiner is just like the man we see on TV, and much more. Follow, rate and review F1 Beyond The Grid and share this episode using #F1BeyondTheGrid. Related Episodes Nico’s first BTG appearance Guenther Steiner Kevin Magnussen

'The Incredible ____' - This week on F1 Beyond The Grid...

'The Incredible ____' - This week on F1 Beyond The Grid...

Which Formula 1 veteran is joining Tom Clarkson for this week's episode of F1 Beyond The Grid? Find out here and then listen to the full episode on Wednesday 6th September. Follow, rate and review F1 Beyond The Grid using #F1BeyondTheGrid.

Fred Vasseur: pursuing the ‘pinnacle’ with Ferrari

Fred Vasseur: pursuing the ‘pinnacle’ with Ferrari

Ferrari’s wait for a record 32nd World Championship is set to continue in 2023. But are the most successful team in Formula 1 history at least heading in the right direction? Ahead of their home race at Monza, who better to answer that question than Ferrari Team Principal, Fred Vasseur? Cracking jokes throughout, Fred tells Tom Clarkson how the culture at Ferrari is like no other he’s experienced in F1 and why this job is the ‘biggest challenge’ of his career. He talks about the development of Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz, the team’s strengths and weaknesses, and he sends a message to the Tifosi. Follow, rate and review F1 Beyond The Grid and share this episode using #F1BeyondTheGrid. Related Episodes Charles Leclerc, ‘2nd isn’t enough’ Carlos Sainz Fred’s previous F1 BTG appearance This episode is sponsored by: Factor: Head to factormeals.com/btg50 and use code btg50 to get 50% off Bitdefender: visit Bitdefender.com to learn more about how Bitdefender supports Ferrari to stay ahead of cyber threats and how YOU can make your digital life safer

The man under most pressure in the paddock? This week on F1 Beyond The Grid...

The man under most pressure in the paddock? This week on F1 Beyond The Grid...

Does this person have the most scrutinised job in Formula 1? Judge for yourself when the full episode comes out on Wednesday 30th August. Follow, rate and review F1 Beyond The Grid using #F1BeyondTheGrid.