Shift

Part OnePrincipal

Day is breaking over Silverstone race track on this July morning. It's the day of the British Grand Prix. The sun is shining and there are no clouds in sight, just as forecast. There is already a shimmer of a heat wave over the parts of the track that are being warmed by the sun's rays.

As the principal arrives at the track, they smile. They can go with their Plan A now that the conditions look fair.

Ahead of the race, the principal gathers their crew around them and gives them a final brief for the race. They explain the strategy, share any further information that they have gleaned from the reams of data generated during qualifying, and make sure everyone in their crew knows exactly what to do and when.

The principal talks with the lead race engineer and the driver separately. They are clear, concise, and focused. The goal is that chequered flag coming down on their driver. Everything they have done so far this weekend, and in the months leading up to this race, has been with this goal in mind. Throughout the season their strategy has evolved, taking each race as it comes, but there is always clarity over what the team is aiming for.

As the driver returns, suited up and ready to climb into their car, the principal takes a moment to soak up the scene. Everyone is in their place; everything is ready. The engine roars into life, the vibrations ripple through the air, and the smell of engine oil and fuel hangs heavy around the pit lane. The drivers start their ...