F1 does not charge mascots - unlike Premier League teams

Formula 1 management have confirmed that the children acting as mascots during Grand Prix races, known as 'grid kids', do not pay for the privilege of escorting the drivers on the track, in the wake of revelations concerning the price of being a mascot within football.

This week, BBC Wales reported that Swansea City, who play in the Championship, were charging kids as much as £478 to be a mascot on matchday, which is more than some Premier League outfits charge.

The larger teams within England such as Manchester United, Manchester City, and Liverpool allow the children to be mascots for free.

With teams coming out with reasoning for their prices, Formula 1 chiefs have responded to enquiries from RaceFans as to whether grid kids are forced to pay to get out on the paddock.

“We don’t pay for the grid kids," Formula One Management told RaceFans in a statement.

“The ASN [national motor sport club] and promoter select them based on karting merit and from local schools in the community.

"The parents and grid kids get themselves to the circuit and in return they have the pride of representing their country on the grid, sing their national anthem, keep the suit, shoes and cap and get tickets for them and a parent to watch the race.”

"Future Stars was introduced at the beginning of last season as a joint initiative between FOM and the FIA."

Future Stars is an initiative set-up last season as a replacement for Grid Girls, with Liberty Media stopping the tradition of having women escort drivers to the paddock.

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