BlackBook Motorsport Virtual Summit: Aug 25th | 14:00 BST

The BlackBook Virtual Summits bring industry leaders together to discuss the new path motorsport has been placed on.

In an uncertain world, motorsport needs to adapt. The pressures of a global pandemic, climate change and rapid digitalisation require bold changes in order for motorsport to remain relevant and continue to grow. In this ongoing series, we are joined by prominent rights holders, race promoters, brands and OEMs to talk together on the future of the sport.

Session 1 - Iconic Asphalt: A regional look at circuit design

The racetrack is every bit as important as the machines racing on it to put on a show for fans. Modern and historic racetracks have innovations, both on and off track, that make them unique and this session looks at three regional tracks that both iconic and innovative in many ways.

• What creates a unique and exciting racetrack?
• How can these facilities innovate off track and away from the racing itself?
• What does the future business model of an iconic track look like?

Speakers:

1. Barry Toepke – Director of events and PR – Laguna Seca Raceway
2. Danny Klima - Programme Director – Yas Marina Circuit

Moderator – Aaron Weiss – President – Concours Club Miami

Session 2 - Inspiring the next generation

The motorsport industry has some way to go to be seen as inclusive, diverse and accessible. However its future in many ways depends on changing the fabric of its makeup to open up to a world of greater talent beyond the more traditional means it has previously replied upon. This next generation of talent must be inspired by those who have over-come great challenges and been successful in establishing a career in racing.

• What has been the key to becoming successful against the odds?
• How can the industry make lasting change to make the sport accessible and diverse?
• What advice could be given to aspiring talent looking to get involved in racing?

Speakers:

1. Nic Hamilton – Racing Driver – Team Hard Racing (BTCC)
2. Charlie Martin -Racing Driver

Session 3 - Brand in focus: Alfa Romeo

The world of Formula One still attracts the biggest brands in the world. The global reach, the glamour, the fast-paced high-tech environment all lend to an attractive proposition, especially for a established OEM brand like Alfa Romeo. With the sponsorship landscape changing, how can a brand like Alfa Romeo, now part of the newly formed Stellantis group, best align its vision in this fast paced sport.

• What are the underlying deliverables brands look for with sponsorships in sport?
• What is unique about the F1 environment that attracts Alfa Romeo who could be spending sponsorship dollars elsewhere?
• How does the racing world help amplify key brand messages?

Speaker:

Cristiano Fiorio – Head of Marketing and Communications – Stellantis