I covered previously how sponsorship is huge in auto racing. A question still unresolved is how you go about getting a sponsor, or get hired by a team. The Road Racing Driver's Club and the FIA, who is in charge of safety in major race series across the globe, put together a great resource for aspiring racers. Here is their page about sponsorship, but they cover a wide range of topics. I apologize for referencing a video, as if you wanted to watch, you would probably have to do it at home, but it really is a great resource. The videos feature reporters from SPEED channel and owners of prestigious racing teams giving their advice. These people all work in the field currently, and the video was made recently. When you sign a contract with a team or sponsor, you are signing a buisness agreement like any other. Also, you become the face of their team or brand. Because of this, it isn't always the fastest driver that gets hired. If you're the best racer in the world, but all the fans hate you, then no one would want to associate you with their team or brand. Conversely, even if you are an average racer, but have very good personal relations, then you are more likely to be hired. Sponsors want people to buy their product because you do, not the opposite. Another important factor is how you deal with the press. The reporters from SPEED admitted that they do like dealing with some drivers more than others. When you are respectful and go along with reporters, they are more likely to interview you more, which means more media coverage for you and your sponsor. Companies would be more likely to sponsor you if they were going to get more coverage by paying you instead of a competitor. What would you do to make yourself more marketable as a driver?
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