By Paul Velasco | GrandPrix247 | 20 January 2025
Elon Musk, arguably the most recognisable figure on the planet, is no stranger to making headlines—and not just for being the first person to inch toward a trillion-dollar net worth. The South African-born tech mogul continues to shake up industries from electric vehicles to space travel. But could the high-octane world of Formula 1 be next on his radar?
With an estimated net worth of $433.9 billion, Musk has the financial firepower to make such a move. And while Tesla might not be the best fit for a sport still powered by internal combustion engines, a SpaceX-branded F1 team could be a match made in marketing heaven.
Formula 1 Meets the Final Frontier?
A “SpaceX GP” team would certainly draw global attention and provide Musk with a new platform to flex his engineering muscle. At F1’s elite level, however, there’s little room to hide—success is determined by millisecond decisions and relentless technological evolution. Owning an F1 team would put Musk’s innovation prowess under an entirely different spotlight.
Though Musk has yet to express a serious public interest in Formula 1, there are signs of crossover. The SpaceX logo featured on Ferrari’s cars during the 2023 United States Grand Prix—through a partnership with Haas Automation—hinted at possible flirtations with the sport. But so far, it’s all speculative.
Tesla and F1: A Philosophical Clash
Tesla’s electric vision doesn’t align with F1’s hybrid power units. While F1 is inching towards carbon neutrality by 2030 and investing in synthetic fuels, Musk’s environmental ethos is more at home in Formula E, the all-electric championship. Still, if F1 pivots toward greater electrification, Musk’s interest could be piqued.
An F1 venture could also serve Musk’s branding goals. The sport offers massive global reach, ideal for showcasing the technological might of SpaceX or promoting Tesla’s latest innovations. And let’s not forget Musk’s appetite for high-stakes ventures—from colonising Mars to building tunnels under LA—making F1 a natural adrenaline-fuelled fit.
F1 as a Marketing and Innovation Playground
Owning a team could allow Musk to push the boundaries of racing technology—whether through advanced materials, AI, or revolutionary energy systems. His knack for disrupting legacy industries could usher in a new era of performance engineering within the sport.
F1’s move toward sustainability may also resonate with Musk’s green credentials. Should the sport adopt electric propulsion or deeper hybrid integration, it could open the door to a Tesla-powered future on the track.
So, Will Musk Take the Wheel?
It’s still speculative, but never say never. If the stars align—technologically, philosophically, and financially—Elon Musk in Formula 1 could become more than just a fantasy headline.
And About That Ketamine Question…
Reports have surfaced about Musk using ketamine, reportedly for mental health and creativity purposes. While he’s spoken candidly about it, there’s no public confirmation of problematic use or addiction. As with most things Musk, the conversation remains complex and controversial.
Until then, Musk’s potential as a Formula 1 disruptor remains a compelling "what if" in the motorsport world. And if he ever decides to get serious, one thing is certain: it won’t be quiet.