Goodbye grid girls, say hello to the new Formula 1 grid kids

Formula 1 and the FIA have announced the introduction of ‘Grid Kids’ for the forthcoming season.

Just days after it was revealed that grid girls would no longer grace the start of races, the motorsport’s bosses said via the F1.com website that the grid kids scheme would make the “pre-race ceremony more relevant and interesting for fans, especially the younger ones”.

The joint initiative will see the local grand prix promoter work alongside the FIA-recognised national sporting authorities to provide a “unique opportunity” to youngsters and their families. An F1 statement said: “Youngsters will be chosen by their motorsport clubs on merit, or by lottery, and will already be competing in karting or junior formulae. The lucky few will then be able to accompany and stand alongside the 20 best drivers in the world on the grid as they prepare for the race.”

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Sean Bratches, F1’s managing director of commercial operations, added: “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.”

Grid kids will be picked at every Formula 1 race and will be accompanied by their family, who will have paddock access for the Sunday grand prix.