In recent years, the number of races on the calendar has been increasing, with the 2025 F1 season set to feature a total of 24 races. This creates challenges for drivers, who, between track activities and training to be in top shape, will have very little time left for themselves. However, they won’t be the only ones affected: mechanics, engineers, and all the staff involved in organizing these events will also face a significant challenge. Former Red Bull mechanic Calum Nicholas explained why having such a packed F1 calendar might not be the best idea.
People working in F1 generally do so out of passion, but this doesn’t mean they don’t face personal sacrifices.
One such challenge is the constant travel. While it certainly offers an opportunity to travel the world and gain new experiences, it’s also tough to be away from home for such long periods. This issue has become more pronounced with the increasing number of races on the calendar. Drivers, as well as those around them, will spend about 190 days traveling for race weekends and pre- and post-season tests.
A Red Bull Employee’s Experience
Calum Nicholas, a former Red Bull mechanic who recently announced his new role as a brand ambassador for the company, spoke about the rise in race numbers.
He commented that the willingness to make certain sacrifices changes with age and accumulated experience. “When I did my first full season in the paddock, I was 23. Back then, I would have happily done 24 or 25 races.”
For the former Red Bull mechanic, the real challenge is balancing work with private life. Having worked in F1 for 12 years, Calum Nicholas noted that while he was once willing to make certain choices, knowing they would only affect him, that’s no longer the case. Now, as a father, his approach to work has changed. “Those sacrifices were also made by others around me: my partner and my daughter. Over the past six years, they’ve both made huge sacrifices to allow me to do what I love.”
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