A landmark FIA study has, for the first time, quantified the true scale of volunteer involvement required to stage a full FIA Formula One World Championship season — and the numbers underline just how dependent the sport is on its global community of trained officials.

According to the research, conducted by FIA University, more than 20,000 FIA‑trained volunteers are needed to support all 24 rounds of a modern Formula 1 calendar. These individuals collectively contribute an extraordinary 965,386 hours of work each season, with an average of 838 volunteers per grand prix, each typically working around 48 hours across the weekend.

In total, that equates to more than 40,000 hours of volunteer effort per race — a figure unmatched by any other global sporting series.

The FIA’s commitment to volunteer development is equally significant. The report finds that the training and support programmes delivered by the FIA and its member clubs represent an annual investment of over €11 million. This includes everything from safety training and incident response to race control operations and medical preparedness.

Volunteers themselves contribute substantial value back into the sport. Their collective time and expertise are estimated to be worth €13.2 million per year — a figure that highlights both the economic and operational importance of their work.

One of the most striking findings is the longevity of service among volunteers: two‑thirds have been volunteering for more than five years, 85% have previously worked at a grand prix, and 29.3% have volunteered for over a decade.

This retention rate has been crucial, particularly as the report notes that volunteer workloads have increased by 20% over the past five years. Despite this rising demand, the sense of community and purpose remains strong: 65% of volunteers take annual leave or unpaid holiday to participate in events.

Carol Armstrong, the 2024 FIA Outstanding Official of the Year, captured the spirit of the volunteer community: “Over the past 14 years I have volunteered at over 50 Formula 1 races and nothing beats the incredible atmosphere.

"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.”

From flag marshals and incident officers to medical teams, logistics staff and race control support, volunteers form the operational backbone of every grand prix. Their presence is not just valuable — it is essential.

The ratio of volunteers to competitors illustrates this vividly. With 20 drivers on the grid and 838 volunteers per race, Formula 1 operates with roughly 42 officials for every driver.

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem underscored this dependence: "The FIA Formula One 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 One World Championship."

While the report celebrates the strength and dedication of the volunteer community, it also highlights the need for structured pathways to ensure future recruitment — particularly as many long‑serving officials approach retirement.

Key recommendations include: establishing a Centre of Excellence to act as a global learning hub, expanding the FIA Officials Department, and introducing a new Volunteer Charter to define minimum standards and support mechanisms.

These measures aim to safeguard the sustainability of the volunteer ecosystem and maintain the high retention rates that have been vital to Formula 1’s growth.