Formula 1 takes next steps with Sustainable Aviation Fuel investment

The investment builds on the previous funding alongside logistics partner DHL. According to F1, the combined investment in the two programmes this year will help to reduce related emissions by more than 8,000 tCO2e (tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent). This is approximately a 19% reduction in related emissions compared to traditional aviation fuel for the air freight charter programme, operated by Formula 1 across the flyaway events of the 2024 season.

Investing in SAF forms a key component of Formula 1’s sustainability strategy, helping the motorsport to meet its Net Zero by 2030 commitment. This requires at least a 50% reduction in emissions compared to a 2018 baseline.

The investment also sees F1 become the inaugural member of Qatar Airways’ SAF programme. This year, the Qatar Airways Group completed an additional purchase of SAF for use across its fleet, which has resulted in a reduction of 19,000 tCO2e.

Formula 1 is set to utilise 100% advanced sustainable fuels from 2026, with support series F2 and F3 achieving this target by next season. Both F2 and F3 have achieved 55% use of sustainable fuels since the start of 2023.

Additionally, the FIA Safety and Medical Cars also currently utilise 40% advanced sustainable fuel.

“The investment is the next step in our alternative fuels strategy which is central to delivering our Net Zero 2030 target,” said Ellen Jones, Head of ESG at Formula 1.

“Through collaboration with our teams, the FIA and our partners, we are delivering on our promises to drive down the sports’ carbon emissions and drive forward technologies that can have an impact beyond Formula 1.

“This is the latest example of how stakeholders across the sport are aligned with our vision for a more sustainable F1, which we are thrilled to see.”

Outside of racing on track, the European section of the Formula 1 schedule has relied on biofuel-powered trucks since 2023. From next season, key operational areas at European Grands Prix (like the pit line and paddock) will be powered by lower-carbon solutions provided by Aggreko. It is hoped that this will reduce the emissions in these areas by over 90%.

Further initiatives relating to air travel come in the form of regional hubs and redesigned cargo containers. Regional hubs are based in Europe, the United Arab Emirates and the US to reduce the distance freight travels between events. Redesigned cargo containers fit on to more efficient Boeing 777 aircrafts, helping to reduce emissions by 17%.

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