100 Most Influential People in Formula 1

1. Bernie Ecclestone | CEO, Formula One Management

Position last year: 1

Age: 85

Bio: Despite his age, he’s still the no.1 decision maker in the sport.

Google searches (approximate stats during the past 12 months): 2.7 million

Without Ecclestone there would be no Formula 1; without Formula 1, there would be no Ecclestone. The sport has had many progressives, transforming a disorganised and dangerous gentleman’s pursuit into a global sporting phenomenon, but none possessed the vision and tenacity of one Bernard Charles Ecclestone.

Beginning as a driver manager in 1957, he soon bought the F1 Connaught team, but when Stuart Lewis-Evans, whom Ecclestone managed, died, after his Vanwall’s engine blew up during the Moroccan Grand Prix, he left the sport. A few years later Ecclestone returned after meeting Jochen Rindt. The two became close friends and business partners, with the Briton running the Lotus Formula 2 factory team, for which Rindt raced alongside Graham Hill. In 1970 Rindt was leading the World Championship for Lotus when he was killed at Monza, he became the sport’s only posthumous World Champion, but the loss of such a close friend and ally caused a devastated Ecclestone to once again withdraw from the sport.

Two years later and clearly addicted to motor sport, Ecclestone returned to buy the Brabham team from Ron Tauranac. A highly organised businessman, he set about changing the company’s organisation, alienating Tauranac in the process, but eventually achieving great success with the help of South African designer Gordon Murray. Under his charge, the team won World Championships with Nelson Piquet in 1981 and 1983.

As a team owner in the mid-seventies, he organised the Formula 1 Constructors’ Association (later FOCA) with Frank Williams, Colin Chapman, Teddy Mayer, Ken Tyrrell and, significantly, Max Mosley. Aiming to protect the interests of the privately owned teams against race organisers and manufacturer-owned teams such as Ferrari, F1CA came to blows with the Fédération Internationale du Sport Automobile, eventually leading to Ecclestone’s elevation as a key-player in representing the commercial rights of the teams, and the now infamous set of Concorde Agreements. Having successfully handled the fall-out from transferring the ownership of commercial rights from FOCA to his own company, Formula One Promotions and Administration, later Formula One Management, Ecclestone had control of Formula 1.

Following a planned flotation in 1997, he began selling shares of FOM’s parent company SLEC Holdings to a variety of investment groups to raise capital. It was an uncomfortable period for Formula 1 as a number of factions wrestled for control. In 2004 Ecclestone was sued by the three main investors Bayerische Landesbank, JPMorgan Chase and Lehman Brothers for diluting their control of the sport by ultimately placing SLEC Holdings under the ownership of Bambino Holdings, a Jersey-based company whose beneficiaries are members of Ecclestone’s family. 2005 saw CVC Capital Partners acquire stakes in Bambino Holdings and Bayerische Landesbank, a move that was later ratified by the European Commission in 2006. CVC own a majority and controlling stake in Formula One, however Ecclestone remained CEO of the respective companies thanks to his investment in Alpha Prema, a company set up by CVC to hold the assets of Bambino, i.e. SLEC, which runs Formula 1. Remaining at the heart of all Formula 1 controversies, Bernie Ecclestone’s influence on the sport transcends any contractual statements. He has retained control during the FISA-FOCA power struggle and averted the certain disaster of a breakaway series during the summer of 2009.

Quotes attributed to the Formula 1 boss can be seen as either ridiculous politically incorrect gaffes or carefully crafted statements, designed to raise the commercial profile of the sport and strengthen his position as ultimate ringmaster of Formula 1. It remains to be seen what will happen when Bernie Ecclestone eventually relinquishes control, but it’s doubtful that just one person could, again, lead Formula 1 single-handedly.

2. Donald Mackenzie | Co-Chairman, CVC Capital Partners

Position last year: 7

Age: 59

Bio: A key player in the future of the sport as the voice of the major shareholders (Formula One Group).

Google searches (approximate stats during the past 12 months): 0.5 million

A key player in the future of the sport as the voice of the major shareholders (Formula One Group). The Financial Times calls him “one of European private equity’s most powerful executives” and as a Managing Partner and a co-founder of CVC Capital Partners Group, Donald MacKenzie exists as one of the most powerful men in Formula 1. Qualifying as a Chartered Accountant, Mackenzie holds an LLB from the Unversity of Dundee, he began his career at 3i, but left to join the precursor to CVC, Citicorp in 1988. Under his guidance the group has developed an impressive reputation, financing 52 companies globally with combined annual sales of almost €90 billion. Upon taking a controlling stake in Formula One Group from Bayerische Landesbank and Bambino during 2006, CVC established Alpha Prema, of which Mackenzie is a board member, to oversee the direction of the Formula 1 assets.

Mackenzie is one of the richest men in the City of London. His connection and influence amongst many of the world’s most powerful business leaders has transformed F1 into a reputable business model that will have attracted much of its recent investment and interest in the five years since CVC became a controlling partner in the sport. His influence and expertise is so highly regarded that he has been called upon by peers, to assist in the development of the Global Buyout Committee; a more structured and coordinated set of guidelines for the controversial investment industry.
His role in the business of Formula 1 can be seen as one of a mediator, coming out in support of Chief Executive Bernie Ecclestone following his ill-advised remarks about Hitler to the Times of London. It’s likely that he’s the financial muscle behind the sport, but he knows that only one person has the influence and respect to run Formula 1 with the success it enjoys today. Though he has rushed to the aide of his ringmaster on previous occasion, as things stand, Mackenzie will be responsible for appointing a successor to Ecclestone to lead the Formula 1 circus when the time comes. In September 2011 CVC appointed Mackenzie as Chairman of the F1 holding company Delta Topco. CVC owns over 60% of Topco and has board control.

3. Jean Todt | President, FIA

Position last year: 2

Age: 70

Bio: The lead individual responsible for the rules of the sport which has a profound effect on the future of Formula 1.

Google searches (approximate stats during the past 12 months): 1.1 million

The lead individual responsible for the rules of the sport which has a profound effect on the future of Formula 1. In October, 2009 Jean Todt was elected president of the Federation Internationale de L’Automobile following a decade and half’s rule by Max Mosley. The Frenchman has enjoyed a famously successful motorsport career, with tenures at Peugeot and Ferrari, winning World Championships in the WRC, Sportscars, Le Mans and Formula 1. Educated in Paris, Todt began his career in motorsport when he navigated for a friend in his father’s Mini Cooper S. He oversaw World Rally Championship titles with Ari Vatanen in 1985 and 1986 with Peugeot Talbot Sport and later, still with Peugeot, won the Le Mans 24 Hours in 1992 and 1993. Todt joined Ferrari as Team Principal in 1993 on the appointment of Luca di Montezemolo. Having strategically lured Michael Schumacher away from Benetton in 1996, Todt began re-building Ferrari to its once legendary status. The move brought the combination of Ross Brawn and Rory Byrne to the team and resulted in the grand figure of thirteen World Championship titles during his reign at the famous Italian marque. Despite beating his rival Ari Vatanen to the FIA Presidency with 135 votes to 49, claims of vote-buying somewhat plagued the run-up to the election for the Frenchman. Having campaigned on a manifesto which promoted transparency of the FIA and a thorough review of the cost structures, Todt’s first years as president appears to have been favourably received, given that his mandate reflects the general feeling of the sport’s other decision makers. His influence in world motorsport is widely felt, but he also holds many ambassadorial roles and titles. He was made a Grand Officer in the French Legion d’Honneur in 2006 thanks to his success with Ferrari, and also holds the Malaysian equivalent of a British knighthood; the Datuk.

4. Dr. Dieter Zetsche | Chairman, Daimler AG

Position last year: 5

Age: 63

Bio: The boss of Daimler, owner of the championship winning team Mercedes AMG Petronas. A big influencer in the German Grand Prix.

Google searches (approximate stats during the past 12 months): 0.7 million

The boss of Daimler, owner of the championship winning team Mercedes AMG Petronas. A big influencer in the German Grand Prix! He is credited with instigating a great sea change in the fortunes of DaimlerChrysler and masterminding the demerger of the two companies in 2007, becoming Chairman of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars. The company’s importance to the continuation of Formula 1, as an engine supplier and manufacturer, cannot be underestimated, and as it stands, Dr Dieter Zetsche appears happy to continue with Mercedes’ involvement in the sport.
Having graduated in electrical engineering at the University of Karlsruhe in 1976, Zetsche joined Daimler-Benz, working in research before becoming Assistant Development Manager of Vehicles just five years later. 1982 saw Zetsche complete a doctorate in engineering at the University of Paderborn and at the age of 45, became a member of the DaimlerChrysler’s Board of Management following the merger of the two automotive powerhouses, that same year, in 1998. With the Daimler-Chrysler deal unable to provide the tangible rewards, which brokers had hoped for, the Chrysler brand was sold off for restructuring to Cerberus Capital Management. His next challenge, following the streamlining and a return to profitability for Daimler AG, was to oversee the return of the Mercedes brand to Formula 1. It was the first time the marque would enter Formula 1 as a manufacturer following the 1955 Le Mans disaster, and Zetsche, along with Mercedes Motorsport boss Norbert Haug masterminded the takeover of 2009 Champions, Brawn GP; a team they had successfully supplied engines. He has shown himself to be a pragmatic business leader, reaffirming his company’s commitment and continued investment in Formula 1. As engine supplier to a quarter of the grid and a manufacturer in its own right, Mercedes’ involvement in the sport is a priceless gesture of confidence. Daimler now owns 60% of Mercedes.
Zetsche wants to keep Schuey for as long as possible – “he’s an icon” – although they won their first GP (China 2012) with Rosberg. Not signed up for Concorde Agreement yet and not happy that they haven’t been invited to join the board…

5. Sergio Marchionne | CEO of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles

Position last year: 35

Age: 63

Bio: CEO of Ferrari’s parent company and a major decision maker in Ferrari’s future.

Google searches (approximate stats during the past 12 months): 1.2 million

CEO of Ferrari’s parent company and a major decision maker in Ferrari’s future, Sergio is an Italian-Canadian executive widely known for his turnaround of the Italian automotive group Fiat and, more recently, for managing the US automotive group Chrysler from bankruptcy to profitability. Marchionne currently holds several roles of major importance, including serving as CEO of Fiat S.p.A., Chairman and CEO of Chrysler Group LLC, and Chairman of CNH Industrial N.V. and its principal subsidiary CNH. He is also a member of the Peterson Institute for International Economics as well as Chairman of the Italian Branch of the Council for the United States and Italy. He attended the prestigious St. Michael’s College School, before moving on to complete his undergraduate studies in philosophy at the University of Toronto and then earning a Bachelor of Commerce in 1979 and an MBA in 1985 both from the University of Windsor and a law degree from Osgoode Hall Law School of York University in 1983. Marchionne received an Honorary Doctor of laws degree from Walsh College in 2013.

6. Dietrich Mateschitz | Co-founder, Red Bull

Position last year: 3

Age: 71

Bio: Owner of Red Bull. The backer behind the 4-time championship winning team and the key influencer in the Austrian Grand Prix.

Google searches (approximate stats during the past 12 months): 1.5 million

From marketing man at a German cosmetics company to owner of the world’s biggest energy drink and a championship winning Formula 1 team. Red Bull revolutionised the way we view modern day sports marketing. By underwriting a number of extreme sports competitions and sponsoring athletes in alternative fields, the company established its reputation within a consumer demographic. It was exactly this, which brought Dietrich Mateschitz to Formula 1. Following sponsorships of Gehard Berger and a majority stake holding in Sauber, Mateschitz bought the assets of Ford’s Jaguar-branded team (formerly Stewart) and set about turning it into a powerful force. It was unclear at some points whether this was just another marketing gimmick for a company desperate to exploit a number of markets that Formula 1 was exploring, but once the championship points started rolling in; Mateschitz’s intention was clear.
He is renowned as one of the foremost experts in sports marketing and with two successful Formula 1 teams, soccer clubs and a variety of extreme-athletes under his care, one can hardly dispute the idea. His influence in the sport is unfathomable, felt the length of the pitlane, Red Bull Technology outfit (an offshoot of his Formula 1 factory in Milton Keynes) supplied gearboxes and hydraulic systems to Team Lotus for 2011.
From making and breaking the careers of future stars to pushing the grid to new and unexplored markets, Mateschitz is a kingmaker. Mateschitz espouses the benefits of what he has achieved with Red Bull Racing. Whereas a sponsor just spends, Red Bull’s ethos has been total control.
With his soccer teams, he immediately replaced the management, it was a seemingly identical ethos in Formula 1. “It has always been our philosophy not to be on the outside buying a fender that we can put stickers on, but rather to be integrated into the relevant sport and to carry the responsibility for success and failure,” says the Red Bull founder. 4.6 billion cans were sold in 2011; a rise of over 11% from 2010, and it was 5.1 billion in 2014, finally reaching 6 billion a year at the end of 2015.

7. Toto Wolff | Executive Director at Mercedes AMG Petronas

Position last year: 11

Age: 44

Bio: Team Boss at Mercedes AMG Petronas. Current and Double World Champions. Since leaving Williams, Wolff has made quite an impact.

Google searches (approximate stats during the past 12 months): 2.8 million

On November 20, 2009, it was announced that Toto Wolff, a former racing driver, had bought a share of the Williams F1 and joined the board of directors of the team. He reportedly owns 16% of the shares and listed the company as the first F1 Team on the Frankfurt Stock exchange. After an eight year winless streak Wolff led Williams to a Grand Prix victory in Barcelona in 2012. In 2012 he was named Executive Director of Williams F1. On January 21, 2013, it was announced that Wolff had parted ways with Williams F1 to become an executive director of the Mercedes AMG Petronas Formula 1 Team. In addition to joining the team, he will also acquire a “significant minority interest” in the team. Wolff is expected to take over the coordination of all Mercedes-Benz motorsport activities, a responsibility previously held by Norbert Haug. As part of the role, Wolff will remain a Williams shareholder, but will not have a role at the team.

8. Ron Dennis CBE | Chairman, McLaren Group

Position last year: 6

Age: 68

Bio: The McLaren boss has achieved more than most in Formula 1. His Team may not be performing as he would wish today, but he remains a key player in the sport and no doubt he will achieve success for the team again in the future given his passion for winning.

Google searches (approximate stats during the past 12 months): 0.9 million

The McLaren boss has achieved more than most in Formula 1. His Team may not be performing as he would wish today, but he remains a key player in the sport and no doubt he will achieve success for the team again in the future given his passion for winning. The former head of the McLaren Formula 1 team, Ron Dennis stepped down in 2009 following political pressure from, then FIA President, Max Mosley. Despite this move, it is widely seen that Dennis holds a significant influence over the direction of the Formula 1 team and is now back to being seen at all the Grands Prix. Dennis owned 15% of the McLaren Group along with Mansour Ojjeh, Daimler AG and the Bahraini Mumtalakat Holding Company, but during 2011 reached a deal to buy back 10% of his McLaren shares from Daimler and is now back to holding 25%.

9. Sir Frank Williams | Founder, WilliamsF1

Position last year: 10

Age: 74

Bio: A true inspiration to many. He continues to run the Williams with the support of his daughter Claire.

Google searches (approximate stats during the past 12 months): 3.8 million

Sir Frank Williams remains one of the most iconic figures of modern day motorsport and is defined, as much, by the bumps and bruises of his career as the dizzying heights he has achieved. He was awarded the Helen Rollanson Award for “outstanding achievement in the face of adversity’ in December of 2010, and is regarded in the greatest of esteem by his peers. Williams exists as possibly the only figure in the paddock which holds the respect, loyalty and admiration of Bernie Ecclestone. For that reason, his quiet, but articulate opinions can be counted upon to shape the paddock for a great many years to come.
The son of a serving RAF officer and headmistress, Sir Frank Williams was obsessed by cars from a young age. His first Formula 1 team, Frank Williams Racing Cars was aggressively acquired by Walter Wolf, an oil magnate, after several sponsorships failed in 1976. After his role in the company was marginalised, Williams left, taking with him former employee Patrick Head. They occupied an empty carpet warehouse in Oxfordshire, building the team Williams F1. Just two years later, in 1979, they took their first win, a championship coming the following year with Alan Jones.
In 1986 Williams had a horrific car accident, which confined him permanently to a wheelchair. This, however, did not stop his die-hard attitude and he bounced back to achieve twelve titles in the quarter century since… In 1994 Williams and much of the senior management of his team, were charged with manslaughter by Italian officials following the death of Ayrton Senna at Imola earlier that year. Charges were not officially cleared until 2005 when the team was exonerated of any wrongdoing.
The team has suffered in recent years with poor financial performances, which have mirrored its on-track achievements, but, despite this, Williams’ attitude is one of perseverance and endurance. Characterised by a tenacious desire to compete, Sir Frank Williams is the epitome of Formula 1 racing. Stepped down from the board in 2012 but remained as Team Principal, with the support of Deputy Team Principal, his daughter Claire.

10. Carlos Ghosn | CEO Renault-Nissan

Position last year: 13

Age: 62

Bio: Took a big decision to buy the Lotus F1 team when they were in a difficult place. It’s great to see Renault back in the sport and no doubt they will continue to improve as the season goes on.

Google searches (approximate stats during the past 12 months): 2.2 million

Carlos took a big decision to buy the Lotus F1 team when they were in a difficult place. It’s great to see Renault back in the sport and no doubt they will continue to improve as the season goes on. Chairman and CEO of Paris-based Renault and holds the same positions at Japan-based Nissan, which together produce more than one in 10 cars sold worldwide. Carlos Ghosn is also Chairman and CEO of the Renault-Nissan Alliance, the strategic partnership overseeing the two companies through a unique cross-shareholding agreement. After his radical restructuring of Renault that returned that company to profitability in the late 1990s Ghosn became known as “Le Cost Killer”.

11. Christian Horner | Team Principal, Red Bull Racing

Position last year: 15

Age: 42

Bio: Widely tipped as Bernie Ecclestone’s successor, the Red Bull Racing’s leader has become a major player in the sport.

Google searches (approximate stats during the past 12 months): 1.2 million

Widely tipped as Bernie Ecclestone’s successor, the Red Bull Racing’s leader has become a major player in the sport, and we’ve all seen that this ride wasn’t smooth for him. Aside from his role with Red Bull Racing, Horner was a successful racing driver in his own right before turning team owner with Arden in a number of motorsport series.

12. Maurizio Arrivabene | Team Principal of Ferrari F1

Position last year: 18

Age: 59

Bio: Still relatively new in his role as Team Principal, but an old face in F1 given his previous role for Philip Morris. Has the respect of the Team and already made strides towards getting back to the top.

Google searches (approximate stats during the past 12 months): 1.0 million

Still relatively new in his role as Team Principal, but an old face in F1 given his previous role for Philip Morris. Has the respect of the Team and already made strides towards getting back to the top. Maurizio Arrivabene comes from a marketing and sales background. Through his work with Philip Morris, he became involved with the company’s sponsorship (through the Marlboro brand) of the Ferrari team, and sat on the Formula One Commission as a representative for all the sport’s sponsors from 2010.

13. Niki Lauda | Non-executive Chairman, Mercedes Benz

Position last year: 4

Age: 67

Bio: Well respected at Mercedes AMG Petronas and a key influencer with both drivers, his experience as a racer and latterly in a management role means he is a highly valued member of the team.

Google searches (approximate stats during the past 12 months): 2.7 million

Well respected at Mercedes AMG Petronas and a key influencer with both drivers, his experience as a racer and latterly in a management role means he is a highly valued member of the team. Niki has seen it all – he gave his F1 debut at his Austrian home race, he signed a deal with legendary Enzo Ferrari, he survived a massive fire accident at the Nürburgring, he won three F1 titles, he was hired by German TV channel RTL as their F1 expert, and he saw his racing career filmed in motion picture sensation “Rush”.

14. Steve Koltes | Co-Chairman, CVC Capital Partners

Position last year: 8

Age: 58

Bio: A major player in the future of the sport, less visible than Donald McKenzie, but plays a key role behind the scenes.

Google searches (approximate stats during the past 12 months): 0.3 million

Truly a major player in the future of the sport, less visible than Donald McKenzie, but plays a key role behind the scenes. Prior to joining CVC, Steve worked for Citicorp from 1980 to 1987 in corporate finance and corporate banking in New York, London and Zurich. Steve holds a BA Degree from Middlebury College.

15. Carlos Slim Helú | CEO, Telmex

Position last year: 16

Age: 76

Bio: Previously ranked as the richest person in the world, he takes a keen interest in Formula 1. Supporting various teams and drivers with sponsorship money and certainly an influencer in the Mexican Grand Prix together with his son Carlos Slim Junior.

Google searches (approximate stats during the past 12 months): 1.5 million

Previously ranked as the richest person in the world, he takes a keen interest in Formula 1. Supporting various teams and drivers with sponsorship money and certainly an influencer in the Mexican Grand Prix together with his son Carlos Slim Junior. Slim has overseen a vast business empire that is influential in every sector of the Mexican economy and accounts for 40% of the listings on the Mexican Stock Exchange, while his net worth is equivalent to about 6 percent of Mexico’s gross domestic product.

16. Charlie Whiting | F1 Race Director, FIA

Position last year: 19

Age: 64

Bio: A familiar face in the sport who has been responsible for operational decisions taken during and around the races. There isn’t much Charlie hasn’t experienced in the sport!

Google searches (approximate stats during the past 12 months): 0.3 million

A familiar face in the sport who has been responsible for operational decisions taken during and around the races. There isn’t much Charlie hasn’t experienced in the sport! His current role carries the responsibility to ensure the race is conducted safely and within the spirit of competition at all times. Only Whiting has the authority to start, suspend or end a Formula 1 race.

17. Vijay Mallya | Owner, Force India

Position last year: 22

Age: 60

Bio: Owner of Sahara Force India and one of F1’s character’s. Now exited from his corporate role with United Spirits so may have more time to focus on his F1 Team.

Google searches (approximate stats during the past 12 months): 1.8 million

Owner of Sahara Force India and one of Formula 1’s legendary characters. Now exited from his corporate role with United Spirits so Vijay may have more time to focus on his Formula 1 team. Educated at St Xavier’s College, Calcutta, Mallya is an independent MP and has philanthropic interests in his homeland and instrumental in delivering Formula 1 to India for 2011.

18. Cyril Abiteboul | Managing Director of Renault Sport F1

Position last year: 71

Age: 38

Bio: Not a new face to F1, but in his most senior position to date. Eyes will be on Cyril to see how he delivers against his counterparts.

Google searches (approximate stats during the past 12 months): 0.6 million

Not a new face to Formula 1, but in his most senior position to date. Eyes will be on Cyril to see how he delivers against his counterparts. Abiteboul was educated at the Lycée Carnot and Lycée Chaptal high schools in Paris, and went on to study aeronautical engineering at Grenoble INP. On July 2014, after Abiteboul’s departure from Caterham F1 teamas Team Principal has been announced, Renault confirmed his return as Managing Director of Renault Sport F1.

19. Paddy Lowe | Technical Director, Mercedes

Position last year: 12

Age: 54

Bio: One of the main brains behind the rise Mercedes AMG Petronas. Paddy rose through the ranks at McLaren and is now one of the most respected Technical Director’s in the sport.

Google searches (approximate stats during the past 12 months): 0.2 million

One of the main brains behind the rise of Mercedes AMG Petronas. Paddy rose through the ranks at McLaren and is now one of the most respected Technical Directors in the whole sport.

20. Claire Williams | Deputy Team Principal at Williams F1

Position last year: 27

Age: 39

Bio: Arguably the person on this list who has developed as a person the most over the past few years. Claire takes the role of Team Principal when her father Sir Frank Williams is not present at races.

Google searches (approximate stats during the past 12 months): 1.6 million

Arguably the person on this list who has developed as a person the most over the past few years. Claire takes the role of Team Principal when her father Sir Frank Williams is not present at races, and she’s also the highest-ranked woman on the list.

21. Paul Hembery | Motorsport Director, Pirelli

Position last year: 14

Age: 50

Bio: The front man for the sole tyre supplier of the sport. Paul plays an extremely important role, and has been at the heart of a few major tyre crisis and has handled the situation admirably.

22. Prince Salman bin Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa | Bahrani Crown Prince

Position last year: 62

Age: 46

Bio: A major influencer in the appearance of the Bahrain GP on the calendar. He is also a major shareholder in the McLaren Group.

23. Dr Helmut Marko | Motorsport Consultant, Red Bull

Position last year: 9

Age: 73

Bio: An extremely important member of the Red Bull Racing team. Overseas the driver programme at the team and a key advisor to Christian Horner.

24. Mike O’Driscoll | CEO, Williams Martini Racing

Position last year: New to the list

Age: 60

Bio: A humble but impressive figure at Williams F1 Team. A proven businessman having previously been President for Aston Martin, Jaguar and Land Rover North America and then returned to the UK to lead Jaguar Cars through the sales process to Tata motors.

25. Sacha Woodward-Hill | General Counsel, FOM

Position last year: New to the list

Age: Unknown

Bio: Suggested by Bernie Ecclesone as his successor. This might be an unlikely choice, but there is no doubt that Sacha has been a major influencer in the sport and important council for Ecclestone over both some important and difficult periods.

26. Jérôme Stoll | President, Renault Sport Racing

Position last year: New to the list

Age: 62

Bio: A new face in the sport having only been appointed to this position in March 2016. An experienced hand at Renault however having been with the business since the 80’s. He will be watching Renault’s return to F1 with interest.

27. Pasquale Lattuneddu | Chief of Operations, Formula One Management

Position last year: 20

Age: 50

Bio: The gatekeeper for Bernie Ecclestone at all races. Pasquale’s disarming charm makes him a popular face in the sport, not to mention that he controls who gets access to the F1 Paddock and who doesn’t!

28. Datuk Wan Zilkiflee | President and CEO of Petronas

Position last year: 17

Age: 55

Bio: The title Partner of Mercedes AMG Petronas in an age with a reducing amount of Title Partners. Also the Title Partner for the Malaysian Grand Prix.

29. Jonathan Neale | COO, McLaren Group

Position last year: New to the list

Age: 53

Bio: A low profile individual who has been promoted from leading McLaren Racing to now oversee the Operations at McLaren Group. A key influencer with sponsors of the team too, so a highly valued member of the Team.

30. Gene Haas | Owner, Haas Racing

Position last year: New to the list

Age: 63

Bio: New to F1 in 2016, but an experienced hand in motorsport having been involved in NASCAR for many years. Gene made a smart move this year with his Ferrari partnership allowing his team to punch above their weight in their inaugural year.

31. Andy Cowell | Managing Director, Mercedes-Benz AMG High Performance Power Trains

Position last year: New to the list

Age: 47

Bio: Arguably has made one of the biggest impacts in the sport as Andy has lead the team who have without doubt produced the best engine in the sport today, which has in turn been arguably the biggest contributing factor to Mercedes AMG Petronas success.

32. Stephen Fitzpatrick | Owner, Manor Racing

Position last year: New to the list

Age: 38

Bio: Relatively new to the sport. Successful Irish businessman and owner of energy firm Ovo Energy. Seems to be finding his feet in the sport after a smart move to Mercedes engines this year.

33. Jean-Frederic Dufour | CEO, Rolex SA

Position last year: New to the list

Age: Unknown

Bio: An important and high profile partnership for FOM not just for the money they are spending, but it is exactly the type of a brand that the sport should be attracting. The focus is almost entirely on brand exposure, which makes them a highly visible partner around the circuits.

34. Axel A. Weber | Chairman of the Board of Directors, UBS

Position last year: New to the list

Age: 59

Bio: Axel was the key figure in signing off the Formula One Management Partnership at UBS. They also have a partnership with Mercedes and have spent a significant sum entertaining guests in the Paddock Club.

35. Mansour Ojjeh | CEO, TAG Group, Co-Owner McLaren

Position last year: 23

Age: 64

Bio: Mansour has been part of the McLaren set up for many decades now. There have been some concerns about his health in recent years, but he is very close to the Bahraini’s and despite his enormous business success remains a lovely character to be around and an important part of the McLaren setup.

36. Takahiro Hachigo | Honda, CEO

Position last year: New to the list

Age: Unknown

Bio: A bold move to come back into Formula 1 which was ultimately agreed by Takahiro Hachigo. He’s had some significant challenges with performance of his engine, but insiders believe it’s just a matter of time before Honda get it right.

37. Lewis Hamilton | Driver, Mercedes AMG Petronas

Position last year: 26

Age: 31

Bio: Without doubt the most marketable driver in the Paddock today. His three world championships look to be just a start, but aside from his obvious talent, his personal life attracts significant media attention which can only be a good thing for the sport.

38. Shaikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al-Maktoum | CEO and Chairman of Emirates

Position last year: 32

Age: 57

Bio: Major Partner of Formula One Management obtaining significant brand exposure from the sport.

39. Michael Diekmann | CEO, Allianz SE

Position last year: 33

Age: 61

Bio: Partner of Formula One Management (focussing on the safety car) and Mercedes AMG Petronas.

40. Sebastian Vettel | Driver, Scuderia Ferrari, GPDA Director

Position last year: 47

Age: 28

Bio: Four-time world champion now racing for Ferrari and a key influencer within the GPDA. Criticised for not being the biggest character in the sport, but he has gained in confidence on and off the track. One of the sport’s true talents.

41. Yusuke Hasegawa | Head of Honda Motorsport

Position last year: New to the list

Age: Unknown

Bio: A newly appointed individual with a vital role to play with an immediate focus on improving performance of their F1 engine. Time will tell if he will sink or swim in this difficult role.

42. Nico Rosberg | Driver, Mercedes AMG Petronas

Position last year: 50

Age: 30

Bio: Despite a challenging 2015 season, Nico has attacked 2016 formidably. He has the clear advantage this season and not many would bet against him winning the championship.

43. Vinod Kumar | CEO, Tata Communications

Position last year: 30

Age: 51

Bio: An important technical partner of Formula One Management and Mercedes AMG Petronas. Day to day decision making is conducted by Managing Director, F1 Business, Mehul Kapadia.

44. Sir Jackie Stewart | Former Driver, Rolex ambassador, brand advisor

Position last year: 45

Age: 76

Bio: Sir Jackie may not have driven for many years now, but he is still right in the thick of the sport. He is currently a Rolex Ambassador and an advisor to many potential and existing brands in F1. He is also very close to Bernie Ecclestone which is not a bad thing!

45. Guenther Steiner | Team Principal, Haas Racing

Position last year: New to the list

Age: 51

Bio: Significant experience in Formula 1 at Red Bull Racing, Jaguar Racing and prior to that in WRC for Ford. Guenther Steiner was tabbed by Gene Haas himself to lead the new American racing team in F1.

46. John Abbott | Downstream Director and a member of the Executive Committee, Royal Dutch Shell

Position last year: New to the list

Age: 56

Bio: John is the key player at Shell to signing off the partnership with Ferrari and the identified race partnerships with Formula One Management. Day to Day management is provided by Annie Kennedy, Sponsorship and Activation Manager.

47. Robin Fenwick | CEO & Founder, Right Formula

Position last year: 92

Age: 35

Bio: Owner of the fastest growing Formula 1 specialist agency. Experienced at bringing new brands into the sport and activating their partnerships to deliver strong results, Fenwick boasts a number of big brands in his roster such as SAP, Pirelli, Hilton, Sky Sports, Red Bull and BT to name a few.

48. Justin King | Chairman, Manor Racing

Position last year: New to the list

Age: 54

Bio: Justin has been mentioned as the possible successor to Bernie Ecclestone which is not improbable given his previous success at Sainsbury’s. Justin has taken a role as Chairman of Manor Racing and has a son who is vying for an F1 seat (currently racing in GP2).

49. Zak Brown | Founder and CEO of JMI, Group CEO of CSM

Position last year: 38

Age: 44

Bio: In a special survey of motorsport business professionals, Zak Brown was named one of the six most realistic candidates to take Ecclestone’s place. Zak and JMI have raised more motorsport sponsorship in the past decade than any other agency.

50. James Allison | Ferrari Technical Director

Position last year: 89

Age: 48

Bio: James is one of F1’s best Technical Director’s and it’s a testament to him that he was targeted by Ferrari to lead their Technical Team.

51. Alan Kelly | President, ExxonMobil, Fuels and Lubricants

Position last year: New to the list

Age: 40

Bio: Alan has been the key influencer at ExxonMobil, responsible for the partnership with McLaren Honda. Kai Decker, Head of Motorsport, ExxonMobil is the day to day contact.

52. Hermann Tilke | Director, Tilke GmbH

Position last year: 40

Age: 61

Bio: Still the most popular choice of designer for new F1 circuits. Tilke has created some of the world’s most iconic tracks.

53. Ana Botín-Sanz | CEO, Santander

Position last year: New to the list

Age: 55

Bio: Ana took over as CEO from her father when he sadly passed away a few years ago. Santander’s presence in F1 – partnering with Formula One Management, Ferrari and McLaren was attributable to him and whilst the size of these partnerships have reduced in recently Ana has continued to support her father’s passion.

54. Attila Doğudan | CEO, Do & Co

Position last year: New to the list

Age: 56

Bio: Attila is an impressive individual who leads Do & Co, a company that has been taking care of Paddock Club’s guests since 1992.

55. Fernando Alonso | Driver, McLaren Honda

Position last year: 48

Age: 34

Bio: Fernando is one of the most talented drivers in the sport without a shadow of doubt. He has regularly been caught in controversy over the years, but he is one of the most respected drivers on the track.

56. Ian Holmes | Head of Media Rights, FOM

Position last year: New to the list

Age: Unknown

Bio: Ian plays a vital role at Formula One Management. The key point person for all F1 broadcasters and has helped negotiate the majority of TV deals to date. This has delivered a substantial amount of revenue to FOM and in turn the Teams.

57. David Coulthardt | Former Driver, Presenter, Brand Ambassador, Co-owner Whisper (C4 Production company)

Position last year: 90

Age: 45

Bio: David or ‘DC’ as he is known by his friends is one of the most respected ex-F1 drivers. He works closely with a number of F1 Sponsors such as UBS, Mercedes, Hilton and Hugo Boss. Has seamlessly moved from BBC presenter to one of Channel 4’s most influential broadcast team.

58. Monisha Kaltenborn | Team Principal, Sauber F1 Team

Position last year: 29

Age: 45

Bio: No without her challenges both last season and this season, but Monisha has managed to steer Sauber’s ship admirably through financial worry. Much like Claire Williams, it’s great to see women in such an influential role in a male dominated sport.

59. Alejandro Soberon Kuri | Chairman of the Board and CEO of CIE

Position last year: New to the list

Age: 56

Bio: The entertainment company that deals with FOM and runs the Mexican Grand Prix. Supported by Carlos Slim.

60. Ken Allen | CEO & Chairman, DHL

Position last year: New to the list

Age: 61

Bio: Global F1 Partner of FOM for many years now and a trusted partner.

61. Jenson Button | Driver, McLaren Honda, GPDA Director

Position last year: 51

Age: 36

Bio: A real legend of the sport and one of Formula’s One’s true gentleman. One of the most down to earth drivers perhaps thanks to the fact that he has had to work as hard as anyone to achieve success. His first race win came with Honda and he unexpectedly won the world championship with quickly formed Brawn GP.

62. Matteo Bonciani | FIA, Head of F1 Communications

Position last year: 60

Age: Unknown

Bio: Matteo plays an important role for the FIA which has already been somewhat challenging this year with the changes in F1 qualifications.

63. Michel Boeri | President, Automobile Club de Monaco

Position last year: 44

Age: 74

Bio: Responsible for the most prestigious Grand Prix on the calendar. Running since 1929 this track is an F1 favourite which has seen many dignitaries and celebrities in attendance over the years.

64. Franz Tost | Team Principal, Scuderia Toro Rosso

Position last year: 25

Age: 60

Bio: Franz Tost has lead Red Bull Racing’s second team for a number of years now. He is a well-respected individual in the Paddock and has helped foster the talent that comes from the Red Bull Development Driver pool.

65. Michael Roche | Executive Director of Singapore GP

Position last year: 98

Age: Unknown

Bio: Michael is responsible for the Singapore Grand Prix which was F1’s first night race and now one of the most important races for business on the calendar. Running through the heart of the city, the scenes from this race are quite spectacular and it’s hard to see this race ever leaving the calendar.

66. Patrick Allen | Managing Director of Silverstone

Position last year: 87

Age: Unknown

Bio: The majority of Team’s home Grand Prix. Patrick leads the team therefore to impress in F1’s backyard.

67. Bobby Epstein | Chairman, Circuit of the Americas

Position last year: New to the list

Age: Unknown

Bio: Bobby was the key player in bringing F1 back to the US following the Indianapolis race which had its problems. Despite financial worries, F1 needs to be in the US, so we hope Bobby can persuade Bernie of this!

68. Eric Boullier | Racing Director, McLaren Honda

Position last year: 79

Age: 42

Bio: Ex Lotus Team Principal has settled in nicely at McLaren. He is like and well respected throughout the F1 Paddock.

69. Al Tareq Al Ameri | CEO, Abu Dhabi Motorsports Management

Position last year: 65

Age: 36

Bio: Abu Dhabi being the last race of the year has become one of the must see races in the calendar. ADMM have spent more on this circuit than any other country which and as such delivers a real spectacle for the fans!

70. Adrian Newey | Chief Technical Officer, Red Bull Racing

Position last year: 53

Age: 57

Bio: A legendary designer for Red Bull Racing, Adrian is probably less involved today than he’s ever been as he concentrates on other projects.

71. Federico Bendinelli | SIAS consultant

Position last year: New to the list

Age: 74

Bio: The lawyer with the specific mandate to manage the Italian Grand Prix. Monza has come under threat in recent years, but as one of the most historic races and home of the ‘Tifosi’ it would be hard to see this one leave the calendar.

72. Jean-Francois Theatret | CEO, Spa Francorchamps

Position last year: New to the list

Age: Unknown

Bio: Possibly the best of the ‘drivers race tracks’ with perhaps the most famous corner’s in the sport ‘Eau Rouge’.

73. Ekrem Sami | Managing Director, McLaren Marketing

Position last year: New to the list

Age: 61

Bio: Perhaps the most respected ‘Head of Marketing’ in the sport today. Ekrem has secured some of the biggest brands in the sport such as West, Vodafone, ExxonMobil and Diageo. It’s been a tough time for him with team’s relative lack of performance, but still deal’s with Chandon and Sensodyne have been delivered despite these concerns.

74. Fernando Haddad | Mayor of Sao Paulo

Position last year: New to the list

Age: 53

Bio: Key player in the renewal of the Brazilian Grand Prix which has been extended until 2022.

75. Kimi Raikkonen | Driver, Scuderia Ferrari

Position last year: 59

Age: 36

Bio: Unique in many ways, but his talent is undeniable.

76. Zsolt Gyulay | President and CEO of Hungaroring

Position last year: 95

Age: 51

Bio: One of the races that’s a real hidden gem. Not the most popular of all the races, but Zsolt’s team do a great job to deliver an amazing event in beautiful Budapest.

77. Alex Wurz | Chairman, GPDA

Position last year: 67

Age: 42

Bio: Ex-F1 driver Wurz now plays and important role for the F1 drivers and has been extremely vocal recently as the drivers have complained about the changing rules of the sport.

78. Shaikh Salman Bin Isa Al Khalifa | CEO, Bahrain International Circuit

Position last year: 62

Age: 46

Bio: Working hand in hand with the crown prince to deliver a great event in Bahrain.

79. King Juan Carlost | Former King of Spain

Position last year: New to the list

Age: 78

Bio: A real friend to Bernie Ecclestone and still a major influencer in the Spanish Grand Prix.

80. Professor Gerard Saillant | President of the FIA Institute

Position last year: 61

Age: 71

Bio: President of the FIA Institute following the retirement of Professor Sid Watkins in 2011. A former official Head Doctor to the French Olympic Team at three Olympic Games (1984, 1988, 1992), Sailliant has been an Advisor to the French Minister of Sports and the French Federation of Motor Sport (FFSA).

81. David Webb | President, JMI

Position last year: New to the list

Age: Unknown

Bio: Taken over from Zak Brown who has since become CEO of JMI’s parent company, Webb has certainly big boots to fill as JMI is still a big player in Formula 1.

82. Daniel Ricciardo | Driver, Red Bull Racing

Position last year: New to the list

Age: 26

Bio: Still relatively new on the scene, Daniel is one of the most likable drivers who clearly has immense talent.

83. Richard Sanders | Head of Commercial, MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS

Position last year: New to the list

Age: 37

Bio: Relatively new and tenacious Sanders has led the charge in securing a number of key partners for Mercedes AMG Petronas, including Hugo Boss, BlackBerry, Qualcomm and Pure Storage.

84. Barney Francis | Managing Director, Sky Sports

Position last year: 78

Age: 44

Bio: Two time FIA broadcaster of the year, who has secured exclusive TV rights from 2019 in the UK. Sky are really leading the charge in terms of F1 TV.

85. Azad Rahimov | Minister of Youth and Sport, Azerbaijan

Position last year: New to the list

Age: 51

Bio:Azad is the champion of the newest race on the F1 calendar. Azerbaijan have a clear mandate to put themselves on the worldwide map. This city circuit is set to be a thriller!

86. Elena Zaritskaya | CEO, NPJSC Centre Omega, owner of Sochi Autodrom

Position last year: New to the list

Age: Unknown

Bio: Elena Zaritskaya has recently taken this post and will no doubt be closely watched by Putin who takes a keen interest in this relatively new race.

87. Katja Heim | Founder, KHP

Position last year: 80

Age: 56

Bio:Founded by Katja Heim in 1985, KHP has pioneered many of the ways that people experience sports and Formula 1 in particular — not only live but across a range of channels, many of which have become widely adopted today.

88. Enrico Zanarini | Founder and head of Media & Sport Management Ltd.

Position last year: New to the list

Age: Unknown

Bio:A recognised and respected as a specialist in driver management and sponsorship acquisition, Enrico is the Director of Media Sport Group.

89. Razlan Razali | CEO, Sepang International Circuit

Position last year: 64

Age: 42

Bio:Razlan leads the team responsible for the Malaysian Grand Prix, which has caused much controversy over the years, partially down to the extreme weather conditions that has been seen over the years.

90. Martin Brundle | Expert Analyst at Sky Sports

Position last year: 86

Age: 56

Bio: Ex F1 Driver and one of the most respected journalists.

91. Felipe Massa | Driver, Williams Martini Racing

Position last year: New to the list

Age: 35

Bio: One of the great drivers who has so often played the supporting role, but really seems to be in his comfort zone at Williams.

92. Subrata Roy Sahara | Chairman & Co-owner, Force India

Position last year: 49

Age: 67

Bio: Subrata Roy is an Indian businessman responsible for Sahara India. Reputedly looking to release his stake in the team if the right buyer comes along.

93. Gary Carey | Global Director of Sponsorships and Partnerships, Diageo

Position last year: 84

Age: Unknown

Bio: From British American Tobacco to Diageo, Gary has experienced all there is to experience in sponsorships. The company continues where they started at McLaren with the Johnnie Walker brand, but have since signed deals with FOM and at Force India with the Smirnoff brand.

94. Robert Fernley | Deputy Team Principal, Force India

Position last year: New to the list

Age: 57

Bio: Bob is Vijay Mallya’s right hand man and close friend. One of the key decision makers at Force India

95. James Allen | Journalist, blogger

Position last year: 94

Age: 49

Bio: Probably the most respected business journalist in the sport.

96. Goh Choon Phong | CEO, Singapore Airlines

Position last year: New to the list

Age: 53

Bio: Sponsor of the Singapore Grand Prix and Sauber F1 Team. Rumoured to be looking at bigger opportunities within the sport.

97. Sonia Irvine | Owner, Amber Lounge

Position last year: 83

Age: Unknown

Bio: Irvine started and still runs one of the most popular F1 after parties. Sister of ex-driver Eddie Irvine and close friends with many team owners and drivers alike.

98. Pat Symonds | CTO, Williams Martini Racing

Position last year: New to the list

Age: 62

Bio: “Pat” Symonds is a British motor racing engineer currently the Chief Technical Officer at Williams Grand Prix Engineering, having previously worked at the Benetton, Renault and Virgin Formula One teams.

99. James Vowles | Chief Strategist at Mercedes AMG Petronas

Position last year: New to the list

Age: 36

Bio: Mercedes obviously think he’s a real talent and with their recent results, who could blame them.

100. Dave Ryan | Team Manager, Manor Racing

Position last year: New to the list

Age: 62

Bio: Back in the sport after many years. A highly respected individual in the sport who took a break after many years with McLaren.