Formula 1’s ‘Next Grand Prix’ programme has been recognised at the 2025 UK Social Mobility Awards (SOMOs), winning the Innovation category for its fresh approach to education and career development.
The awards ceremony, held at the London Hilton Park Lane on October 2, took place on the eve of the Singapore Airlines Singapore Grand Prix and brought together leading businesses and charities committed to improving social mobility across the UK.
The ‘Next Grand Prix’ initiative is aimed at students aged 16 to 18 who are invited to create and pitch a bid for a fictional round of the Formula 1 World Championship at a brand-new venue.
The day-long workshop places young people in the shoes of C-suite executives, allowing them to experience the decision-making and strategic thinking required at the top levels of global business.
Since its launch in 2022, the programme has steadily grown in reach and impact. In 2024 alone, more than 200 students participated across 10 workshops, with Formula 1 partnering with four leading law firms and the Social Mobility Business Partnership charity to deliver the sessions, ensuring students were exposed to a diverse range of professional insights.
Formula 1’s recognition highlights the organisation’s genuine commitment to opening doors and creating opportunity
Tunde Banjoko, SOMOs Founder
The response from participants has been overwhelmingly positive, with 97% of students reporting that the programme helped them build vital skills such as critical thinking, performing under pressure and presenting ideas confidently – all attributes essential for future careers.
The judging panel, chaired by Sir Kenneth Olisa, Lord-Lieutenant of Greater London, featured senior figures from organisations including Sky, BP, and BNP Paribas. They praised the ‘Next Grand Prix’ programme’s innovative design and lasting impact, awarding it the top honour in the Innovation category.
“Formula 1’s recognition at the 2025 UK Social Mobility Awards highlights the organisation’s genuine commitment to opening doors and creating opportunity,” Tunde Banjoko, Chief Executive of Making The Leap and Founder of the SOMOs, told Sector.
“They are deserving winners because their innovation reflects the purpose of these awards, turning ambition into action and helping build a fairer future for people from less advantaged socioeconomic backgrounds.”
Previous winners of this award include Kier, Balfour Beatty, Penguin Random House, and Howdens. Supported by Amazon, Formula 1’s victory saw it triumph over strong competition from the likes of Nando’s, ICAEW, Amentum and Mears Group – underlining the sport’s growing commitment to driving opportunity beyond the racetrack.
