F1 uncovered: A weekend behind the scenes with a chief mechanic

With 24 races on the calendar now, working in Formula 1 is a mental and physical challenge like never before. You may have noticed the drivers expressing some disgruntlement over the packed schedule towards the end of the year – and they’re staying in five-star hotels and flying either first class or private.

The reality for the team mechanics is truly brutal. They’re the ones arriving at the venue almost a week before the race and leaving six hours after the chequered flag drops on Sunday. The packing up process begins before the race ends.