Inside An F1 Driver’s Detailed Preparation Process
What does it really take to prepare for the intensity of Formula 1? Beyond physical fitness and technical skill lies a world of mental precision – the psychology of preparation.
In this new video series, presented by Tag Heuer, Formula 1 explores how drivers mentally ready themselves for one of the most demanding sports in the world. In the first episode, Hintsa’s performance psychologist Matthew Thompson joins two-time world champion Mika Häkkinen to reveal the psychological strategies and routines that underpin race-day success.
From building confidence and visualising key moments, to managing pressure and creating purposeful routines – this episode offers a rare look behind the scenes of a champion’s mindset.
00:00 – Intro
02:34 – What did psychological preparations mean to Mika Hakkinen?
02:53 – What do F1 drivers need to be successful?
03:48 – Building confidence – Ayrton Senna
06:23 – The team behind the driver
10:07 – Visualisation and final race preparations
12:06 – Mika Hakkinen’s race preparations
12:54 – Mika Hakkinen’s World Championship race in 1998
14:23 – Routines vs rituals
