On the Grid

“From the moment he arrived in the Formula 1 paddock a decade ago, Luke Smith announced himself as far more than just a journalist. For me, he is one of the finest wordsmiths in modern sport, his deftly woven narratives immersing the reader in the full visceral experience of the motor racing world. By combining his deep knowledge and experience of Formula 1 with infectious passion and singular craft he has created a truly fabulous and unique piece of work. On the Grid is incredibly special. I loved every thoughtfully written word.” – Will Buxton, award-winning broadcaster and New York Times bestselling author of Grand Prix: An Illustrated History of Formula 1

“Luke is one of the foremost journalists within the paddock. His book draws the curtain back on our sport and delves deep into the fascinating world that sees hundreds of people at each team working to put two cars on track and competing against each other every other weekend. Very few titles have covered the stories of the unsung members of the F1 community in this level of detail and with such vibrancy.” – Toto Wolff, team principal and CEO of the Mercedes F1 team

“Luke’s book is a great read for any new and seasoned F1 fan. The chapters flow as well as Suzuka’s first sector and the compelling stories of our travelling circus will keep you entertained until the very last page. Recommend!” – Esteban Ocon, Formula One Driver

“Even if you think you know everything there is to know about Formula 1, you’ll learn something within these pages.” – GP Racing Magazine

“A riveting and exclusive look at the dynamic world of F1 racing, like an all-access pass to the motorsport with a rapidly growing fan base … made all the more impactful via interviews with premier drivers and [Smith’s] analysis of how diversity and the climate crisis are being addressed within the sport.” – Booklist

Luke Smith is a Formula 1 and motorsport journalist based in Bexhill-on-Sea, UK. He is a senior writer covering Formula 1 for The Athletic, and his work regularly features in the New York Times as he follows the sport’s traveling circus around the world. Prior to The Athletic, he spent ten years reporting on Formula 1 for Autosport and NBC Sports, among other media outlets. He regularly makes both television and radio appearances as a Formula 1 pundit. Luke does not have a driver’s license.