Do you have to be a millionaire to become an F1 driver?

In the high-stakes world of Formula 1, Andrew Benson dives into the financial barriers that increasingly make it challenging to break into the sport. While traditional routes to F1 once relied heavily on connections and sponsorship, today's rising costs mean that having significant wealth—if not being a millionaire—has become almost a prerequisite. This shift isn't just about the direct expenses for racing but also includes the escalating costs of infrastructure, technology, and safety regulations. Understanding these financial hurdles provides insight into why the pool of potential drivers is shrinking and why the sport's elite are becoming even more exclusive.