The hidden team of experts behind every F1 star

Here is the thing about Formula 1: reaching the grid and fighting for glory is never a solo mission. It is an impossible task to undertake alone. Every single point, podium, championship, and even the simple act of making it to lights out demands a remarkable amount of work from an intricate team of people working alongside the competitor every step of the way.

From race engineers to performance coaches, a massive network is necessary to help these drivers reach the top and stay there. Driving the machine is only a fraction of the reality. F1 isn't just about the relatively short time spent out on the track. It is the hours swallowed up in debriefs, the simulator work grinding away back at the team's base, the relentless gym sessions, and the endless media duties.

Thankfully, a new feature series is pulling back the curtain on this hidden world. F1.com will speak directly to the individuals within a driver's inner circle who enable the sport's stars to thrive at each of these tasks and more. It is time to look at the support systems that make the magic happen.