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Following on from the findings of the Hamilton Commission, which last year identified at least six barriers that limit black people’s progression into engineering and motorsport careers, the Racing for All initiative provides an additional mechanic or engineer position at each Extreme E team. The position is open to people with less than one year’s professional motorsport experience, providing a first step on the career ladder in a very competitive industry.
The programme aims to reduce barriers and attract those who might not otherwise be able to have the opportunity, according to an Extreme E announcement. Female and ethnic minority candidates, and people from disadvantaged socio-economic backgrounds, are particularly encouraged to apply.
Seven-time Formula 1 world champion and owner of the X44 Extreme E team, Sir Lewis Hamilton, said: “We know from the findings of The Hamilton Commission that our industry is a tough place to break into, particularly for those from underrepresented backgrounds, which is why it’s so important that the Racing for All programme will be creating genuine opportunities for the next generation.”
He added: “I’m so excited to see this programme adopted across the paddock, and I can’t wait to see what the first group of Racing for All candidates goes on to achieve.”
Launched last year, Extreme E races electric SUVs in remote parts of the world, aiming to highlight environmental issues caused by climate change. It has already taken steps to boost gender equality in motorsport by requiring both a female and male driver in each team.
The Racing for All initiative brings the total number of mechanics and engineers for each team to six. Numbers are limited to help reduce overall attendance numbers across the championship.
“Our goal is for Racing for All to instil an inclusive mindset and a wider recruitment pipeline, which enables the next generation of race mechanics and engineers to reach the highest levels of motorsport, regardless of factors such as race, gender or social economic status, and reduce the barriers which exist for certain communities,” said Extreme E founder and CEO Alejandro Agag.
The scheme is now open, with the majority of the paddock reportedly indicating that they will start hiring ahead of season three next year.
Jenson Button, 2009 Formula 1 world champion and owner of Extreme E team JBXE, said: “With all my years in motorsport, I've seen first-hand just how vital the push for equality in motorsport and engineering is, so it is encouraging to see Extreme E making this issue such a priority. Everyone, no matter what their gender, race or background, should be able to get involved, and Racing for All will be a huge step towards making this the norm.”
Extreme E is working with the EqualEngineers organisation to educate teams on inclusive recruitment processes that ensure all applicants are welcome and considered.
To apply for the Racing for All programme, visit the Extreme E website.
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