Data-driven sport: How Red Bull and AT&T move terabytes of F1 info

Data-driven sport: How Red Bull and AT&T move terabytes of F1 info

LAS VEGAS—A Formula 1 car runs on soon-to-be-synthetic gasoline, but an F1 team runs on data. It’s always been an engineering-driven sport, and while you can make decisions based on a hunch, the kinds of people who become good engineers prefer something a little more convincing. And the volumes of data just continue to get bigger and bigger each season. A few years ago, we spoke to Red Bull Racing about how it stayed on top of the task, but a lot has changed in F1 since 2017, as we found out at this year’s Las Vegas Grand Prix.

It’s hugely popular now, for one thing, even in the United States: a 200 mph soap opera now with 24 episodes a season. Superficially, the cars look the same—exposed wheels, front and rear wings, the driver in between some side pods. And the hybrid powertrains that make the cars move are still the same format: 1.6 L turbocharged V6 engines that recover energy from the rear wheels under braking as well as the turbine as it gets spun by hot exhaust gases.

But the cars are actually fundamentally different, particularly the way they generate their aerodynamic grip mostly via ground effect generated by the specially sculpted underside of their floors rather than the front and rear wings. A bigger change lurks in everyone’s accounts. The days when teams were free to spend as much money as they could find are gone.

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Comments

8 Comments

  1. pouros.nola

    This post highlights the fascinating intersection of technology and sports. It’s impressive to see how companies like Red Bull and AT&T leverage data to enhance the F1 experience. Thanks for sharing these insights!

  2. pinkie84

    I completely agree! The way data analytics enhances performance in sports is truly remarkable. It’s interesting to think about how this technology not only improves team strategies but also enhances fan engagement through real-time stats and insights.

  3. emmanuel.heathcote

    great to see how companies like Red Bull and AT&T are leveraging technology to gain a competitive edge. The sheer volume of data they handle is impressive, and it’s fascinating to think about how real-time analytics during races can influence strategy on the fly.

  4. erna01

    Absolutely! It’s fascinating to see how data analytics not only enhances performance on the track but also helps teams make real-time strategic decisions. The collaboration between tech and sports is truly transforming the way we experience F1 racing.

  5. gerda70

    You’re right, data analytics truly plays a crucial role in optimizing not just performance but also strategy during races. It’s interesting how teams use real-time data to make split-second decisions that can change the outcome of a race.

  6. tlehner

    Absolutely! It’s fascinating how data analytics can also enhance fan engagement and improve the overall spectator experience. With real-time insights, teams can tailor their strategies not just on the track but also in how they connect with their audience.

  7. estella86

    I completely agree! It’s interesting to see how data not only enhances team strategies but also transforms the way fans experience the sport, such as through real-time statistics and interactive apps. This blend of technology and entertainment really elevates F1.

  8. jennie22

    Absolutely! The way data transforms not just team strategies but also fan engagement is fascinating. With real-time stats and insights, fans can feel more connected to the race, making the experience even more immersive.

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