Although becoming a professional race car driver is challenging, it is possible if you have the right attitude and dedication. The average salary in professional auto racing is $44,680, and top race car drivers can earn up to $187,200 annually. You can succeed in the field if you put a lot of effort and training into it.
If you enjoy driving cars, you can start small to see if you have what it takes to operate a race car. Your chances of choosing a career will be better the earlier you start racing. Racing car drivers are athletes because competition requires physical activity. You will remember how to drive a car for the rest of your life. Here are quick tips on how to become a pro car driver.
Things to improve before being a professional.
Knowledge about the field
As with any other sport, research is necessary to become a professional racing car driver. Numerous leagues include IndyCar, Formula 1, NASCAR, the World of Outlaws, IMSA, and the World Endurance Championship (WEC). If you are talented enough, have the right connections, and are lucky enough to have a little luck, a professional team may offer you a contract.
Dedication
Without the strength of character, you have nothing and always will have nothing. To be a professional racer, you must devote your entire life to the sport. It’s okay if you’re not mechanically inclined because most racers aren’t mechanics. Understanding the differences between a street car and a race car is crucial.
Racing experience and knowledge
It’s crucial to be knowledgeable about the series you want to compete in. Knowing a lot about racing makes you more popular among racing people. The more you are familiar with racing, the easier it will be for you to get along with other racers and make friends.
Knowledge about social media
Without social relationships, you cannot be a professional racing driver because racing is all about media exposure. Some professional racecar drivers, including four-time FIA Formula 1 World Champion Sebastian Vettel, do not use social media. Selling products and making money are any company’s primary objectives.
Ability of Coaching
This may look weird! But training someone to drive a fast car is one of the most crucial abilities a race car driver needs to have. Additionally, you can pick up a lot of racing knowledge by guiding others in the sport and describing your learnings so that others can benefit from them.
Preparation
Racing is expensive; involvement costs both time and money. You build a reputation as you win races by learning and practicing your driving techniques and boosting your skills.
Good Health
Your body will be subjected to high temperatures inside a race car, up to 140 degrees Fahrenheit. You must be in a state of readiness for your body to handle it. Your chances of living more prolonged increase with improved physical health. Try lifting light weights; it will keep you lean while producing delicate muscle layers.
Exercises to Improve you
Running or cycling are exercises that will help your body withstand the strain of a long race. Because the winning margin in a race is typically just a few seconds, minimizing load can increase your chances of success.
Getting the License
You require an SCCA license if you intend to compete professionally. You must compete in races at least three times over two years to obtain the license. You were engaging in social media activity, conducting interviews, and expanding your fan base. Create a strong personal brand to draw sponsors.
Financial management
You will require investment if you want to drive professional racing. It is challenging to find this in entry-level racing, but you can find it through family, friends, or partners. Taxes, tires, travel, and auto maintenance typically cost amateur racers between $2,000 and $10,000 per season. You’ll require an engine to build and maintain after every second season.
Finding Sponsorship
Choosing the best sponsor or team to display on your race car is critical. A team will cover all or a portion of your expenses in exchange for a share of your winnings. Teams and sponsors will probably approach you with a proposal if you’re a good driver. Otherwise, begin contacting the teams and sponsors you see on the track.
Buy a car
If you’re serious about improving your racing car, invest in a vehicle like a vintage sports car. Make sure the car has all the necessary safety features and is track-ready by working with a skilled mechanic.
Utilize your free time on the track at your nearby facility. Regular exercise will open your eyes to potential sponsors and team owners.
Driving the car
- You probably won’t ever learn to drive well in a fast car.
- Learn the techniques by starting with a quick cart.
- If you can drive the carts in fast lap times, purchase a starter vehicle.
- Good drivers and Professional race car drivers can be distinguished by their consistency.
- A pro driver can maintain a 1-second envelope while completing laps in 1:49 or 1:50 all day.
- Excellent first vehicles
| · Miatas F-R · BRZ · F86 |
which are all the same thing |
| · Porsche Boxsters | less powerful on pre-2000 |
Also Remember, do not be frightened by the vehicle’s age or high mileage
Signing for Big races
When your team and reputation are strong, you’re ready to compete in more significant events like the MX-5 and GP2. Try your hand at some less popular racing breeds; it takes a lot of work but is also fun.
Winning
There is no option but to cross the finish line first, even if it is the biggest race of your life. As it happens, strong momentum is gaining behind you, making everything move quickly. This applies to every vehicle you drive, whether an MX-5 or GP2.
