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Formula 1 drivers demonstrate superior concentration and confidence compared to Formula 2 drivers
P J McKnight1, R Manwaring2, L Felton3
1Sport Department, ProPath, Snö Performance, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
Frontiers in Psychology
|June 22, 2026
Summary
Formula 1 drivers excel in concentration and confidence compared to Formula 2 drivers, highlighting key psychological skills for elite motorsport success. These findings inform talent development and targeted interventions in racing.
Area of Science:
- Sports Psychology
- Motorsport Psychology
- Performance Psychology
Background:
- Limited research exists on psychological skills in elite motorsport.
- Understanding psychological differences between Formula 1 (F1) and Formula 2 (F2) drivers is crucial for talent identification and development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate and compare psychological skills between F1 and F2 drivers.
- To identify specific psychological domains that differentiate performance levels in motorsport.
Main Methods:
- Ten professional drivers (5 F1, 5 F2) completed the Athletic Coping Skills Inventory-28 (ACSI-28).
- The ACSI-28 assesses seven psychological domains.
- Independent samples t-tests and Cohen's d effect sizes were used for group comparisons.
Main Results:
- No significant difference in overall ACSI-28 scores between F1 and F2 drivers.
- F1 drivers showed significantly higher concentration (p=0.03) and confidence/achievement motivation (p=0.04).
- F1 drivers had medium effect size advantages in coping with adversity and peaking under pressure; F2 drivers showed advantages in goal-setting and freedom from worry.
Conclusions:
- Elite motorsport performance is linked to specific psychological capabilities.
- Superior concentration and confidence are critical determinants of success in F1 racing.
- A developmental progression in psychological skill emphasis may exist between F2 and F1, warranting further research.
Keywords:
ACSI-28Formula 1concentrationelite performancemotorsport psychologypsychological skillsself-confidenceMore Related Videos
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