F1 Announces Grid Kids to Replace Grid Girls

Last week, Formula One came out with a controversial announcement, effective from 2018 onwards. The sport will no longer use grid girls to represent the drivers at races. This decision prompted an immediate backlash from the fans and the racing community. Now, Formula One has come up with a new initiative to replace the grid girls, namely grid kids.

The way things work, motorsport clubs will select young fans who are competing in junior racing categories or karting. These kids will join the drivers on the grid and will make an appearance at every F1 race. This system will not be restricted to Formula One alone though, if feasible, they will be used at F2, GP3 and other support series. The children’s families will also be granted paddock access for race day.

F1 managing director Sean Bratches said, “This will be an extraordinary moment for these youngsters. Imagine, standing beside their heroes, watch as they prepare to race, the elite of the elite in motorsport, to be there, alongside them in those precious few minutes just before the start. What an unforgettable experience, for them, and their families. An inspiration to keep driving, training and learning so that they can dream of one day being there themselves. What better way to inspire the next generation of Formula 1 heroes.”

Even FIA president Jean Todt was enthusiastic about the plan. He termed it as “an excellent initiative that provides additional support to our member ASNs [motor sport clubs] in their efforts to grow motorsport worldwide through a unique reward they can make available to youngsters participating in their national series.”

To be honest, giving these children a chance to stand alongside the F1 drivers and be seen at the highest level of racing, is perfect. After axing the practice of grid girls, having kids represent the drivers and hold their racing numbers will be surreal for them.