STUDENTS SHIFT GEARS TOWARDS FORMULA 1 

Akhona Maphumulo

@akhonamaphumulo9

 

The speed, sound, and excitement of Formula One have long captivated global audiences, but the sport is now gaining noticeable traction among university students. What was once considered a niche interest is steadily becoming part of campus conversations, where students are increasingly sharing their excitement and curiosity about the sport.

 

Formula One is a motorsport where drivers compete in high-speed races known as ‘Grands Prix’, held across different countries throughout the season. For many students, the appeal lies not only in the racing itself but also in the strategy, unpredictability and drama that unfold both on and off the track. Among students, Formula One is no longer just something watched occasionally but something discussed, analysed and shared. From social media posts to casual conversations, students are beginning to form their own opinions about teams, drivers and race outcomes.

 

For Simmy Morwane, a second-year BSc Urban and Regional Planning student, interest in the sport began at a young age through his love for cars. Influenced by shows like Top Gear and racing games such as Need for Speed, his curiosity deepened when he saw a Formula One car featured on television, which led him to discover that there is an entire global sport built around these machines. What keeps him engaged, he explained, is how quickly things can change during a race. “The unpredictability of the game is perfect,” Morwane said. He added that once someone understands the sport, it becomes difficult to ignore, stating that, “If you’re not hooked by F1 when someone explains it to you, then something is wrong.”

 

Despite his passion, Morwane also pointed out concerns about decisions made by the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), the governing body of Formula One. He said regulation changes such as the 50-50 power split between engine and electric power have affected how the sport feels to fans.

 

For Guinevere Basjan, a second-year BSc Urban and Regional Planning student, Formula One is more than just racing, but also about shared experiences. She recalled watching races with her father from a young age, saying those moments introduced her to the sport and stayed with her over time. After stepping away from Formula One for a few years, Basjan said she returned to it in 2024, where watching races with her sister re-ignited her interest. She described that period as a turning point, explaining that once she got back into the sport, she found it difficult to stop following it. One of the moments that stood out for her was the victory of Charles Leclerc at the Monaco Grand Prix, which she described as unforgettable. For Basjan, moments like these are what make the sport exciting and emotionally engaging.

 

She also explained that her interest extends beyond the race itself. Following team dynamics, rivalries and how teams adapt to regulation changes make the sport interesting, because it shows what happens behind the scenes. Basjan said she has noticed more students engaging with Formula One through social media and merchandise. “There have been more posts about Formula One this year compared to last year, which shows a growing level of student engagement,” she said. She added that if she were to talk more about the sport, she would talk all day.

 

Abygail Smit, a second-year BA Communication student, said her interest in Formula One began through a personal experience with her father. “I started watching Formula One because my dad and I watched a documentary on Michael Schumacher’s career and life. I instantly fell in love with the sport,” Smit said. She explained that her passion has grown over time, particularly as a Ferrari supporter. “I am a passionate Ferrari fan, so I keep watching because I am waiting for our title wins,” she said. The way teams evolve and plan their strategies keeps her engaged. “I like the story behind F1 the most. The sport has a rich history, and I love seeing how people are still passionate about it today.”

 

Smit also believes the sport is becoming more popular among students, linking it to both culture and inspiration. “Watching sport is a big part of South African culture,” she said. “I believe F1 is gaining a bigger following among students because of the circuit in Kyalami as well as the younger drivers and team leaders, who inspire students and show what they can achieve.”

 

Interest in Formula One among students continues to grow, with more engagement seen through social media and peer discussions. As more students are introduced to the sport, its presence on campus is likely to expand.

 

Formula 1 2026 Race (Source: Red Bull). 

 

Edited by Antoinette Tshikota