CAREERS: Driving ambitions

Formula 1 motorsport engineer Robert Sattler inspired Year 11 students with a fascinating talk about his work and career. KAREEM SAID, one of the many young enthusiasts queuing up to ask questions afterwards, tells us what he learnt

I AM very keen on my motorsport despite aiming for a medical career. I started watching F1 in 2019 and ever since I have been fascinated by the fundamental physics behind the way the cars work, such as the way the downforce works with the chassis structures and the front and back wings as well as the floor design.

It’s like a someone pulling off a magic trick or solving a hard maths problem without a calculator: things that make you feel like ‘that's smart’. As well as the chasing and the pit stops, even the crashes, are linked to physics in various ways.

During Mr Sattler’s talk, I learnt that, although it is hard to reach such high positions, it isn't impossible. We also found out what steps people on such a career path need to take to progress, such as working from F3 and several different FIA (like FIFA association for racing) racing leagues to reach F1.

I was further inspired that it was not too late to start karting, which I believe is the start to most one-seater motorsport.

I was also impressed that he used to work with Niko Hülkenberg, who is a sub-driver for the team he used to drive in, and a very much admired racing driver.

I am very thankful for Mrs Kizildagli bringing this speaker in to talk to us all.

Mr Sattler's career path, below: