Become a Professional F1 Drone Racer

Becoming a Professional F1 Drone Racer is an incredible opportunity to turn a passion for drones and racing into a rewarding career. You get to travel abroad, compete in public events, and earn recognition and prizes. Plus, you’ll be at the forefront of an emerging sport, constantly evolving and growing in popularity. It’s a chance to combine technology, sportsmanship, and creativity in a thrilling way.

• Combine technology skills with high-speed racing excitement.
• Explore drone design and flight technology.
• Travel globally for thrilling competitions.
• Build a career in the fast-growing esports field.

A Professional F1 Drone Racer competes in drone racing events, flying high-speed drones through complex courses. 

Your daily activities might include training, practising flight techniques, and maintaining your drone. 

You’ll also analyse flight data to improve your performance and strategise for upcoming races. 

You might participate in promotional events, engage with fans, and collaborate with sponsors.

Professional F1 Drone Racers have the opportunity to work in various industries that value their unique skills and expertise.

Sports and Entertainment

Competing in drone racing leagues and participating in live events and shows.

Technology

Collaborating with tech companies to develop advanced drones and flight systems.

Media and Broadcasting

Working with TV networks and streaming platforms to showcase drone races and create engaging content.

Education and Training

Teaching others about drone racing and safety, and helping to develop training programs.

Marketing and Advertising

Partnering with brands to promote products through drone racing events and demonstrations.

To excel as a Professional F1 Drone Racer, you’ll need a blend of technical and personal skills.

• Precision Flying
• Hand/Eye Coordination
• Technical Knowledge
• Quick Decision Making
• Problem Solving

Certain STEM subjects can provide a strong foundation for a career as a Professional F1 Drone Racer.

Physics

Understanding the principles of flight and aerodynamics.

Mathematics

Developing problem-solving skills and precision.

Computer Science

Learning about programming and controlling drones.

Engineering

Gaining knowledge of drone construction and mechanics.

Physical Education

Building coordination and reflexes.

As a Professional F1 Drone Racer, you’ll have the chance to do some truly amazing things like compete in thrilling races at spectacular venues, pilot epic drones at incredible speeds, and perform daring aerial manoeuvres. 

Plus, you’ll get to meet other drone enthusiasts, travel to new places, and perhaps even become a social media star by sharing your racing adventures online.

Master high-speed drone manoeuvres
Spend time honing precision flying techniques at incredible speeds, navigating complex race tracks with sharp turns and challenging obstacles.

Custom build race drones for peak performance
Work on building and upgrading drones, using advanced parts to fine-tune performance for faster, more agile flights in competitive races.

Use virtual reality to practise racing skills
Simulate race conditions through virtual environments, walking through different tracks and improving reaction times before real competitions.

Collaborate with engineers on drone technology
Work alongside engineers and tech specialists to improve drone designs, exploring ways to make drones faster, more stable, and easier to control.

Review race footage and data for performance gains
Analyse footage and flight data from previous races to identify areas for improvement in both drone handling and racing strategies.

Compete in international drone racing tournaments
Take part in challenging competitions worldwide, representing your country while flying against the best drone racers from other nations.

Australia is pushing the boundaries of drone sports and racing. These talented individuals are rising up in the ranks making waves in the drone sector, showing both technical expertise and fierce competitive spirit.

Rudi Browning

Rudi is a notable figure in the Australian drone racing community. He made history by becoming the first FAI World Drone Racing Champion in 2018, at the age of just 15. He competed against 127 racers from 34 countries and won the prestigious title and a $24,000 prize. 

Rudi’s technical skills and competitive spirit have made him a standout in the field. His achievement marked a significant moment for Australian drone racing on the global stage​ World Air Sports Federation 

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Jessica Saunders

Jessica is part of the team at Drone Sky Shows, where she plays a key role in drone choreography and operations. Her contributions to drone light shows have been featured at various events across Australia, including festivals and private celebrations. Jessica’s work highlights the creative and technical possibilities of drone technology in entertainment​. Drone Sky Shows

Certain personality traits could set you up for success in this exhilarating career.

Courageous

Willing to take risks and fly at high speeds.

Creative

Finding unique ways to navigate courses and solve problems.

Calm

Maintaining focus and composure under pressure.

Ambitious

Driven to improve and win races.

Attentive

Generally aware of your surroundings and environment.

For students who want a broad academic foundation, pursuing a degree in engineering, aviation, or robotics can be a great starting point. 

Here are a few relevant options:

Bachelor of Engineering (Robotics and Mechatronics)
This degree focuses on designing, building, and controlling robotic systems, including drones. Students learn about sensors, autonomous flight, and advanced control systems. Curtin University offers this programme with a focus on robotics applications in various industries.

Bachelor of Aviation Technology
A degree in aviation technology covers flight principles, aerodynamics, and aviation safety, making it ideal for aspiring drone racers. The University of Western Australia (UWA) provides this degree, which includes both theoretical and practical elements related to flight technology.

Bachelor of Science (Computer Science – Artificial Intelligence Focus)
This programme helps students develop skills in AI, which can be applied to drone racing technology, making drones smarter and more responsive. Edith Cowan University (ECU) offers a detailed course in AI and machine learning, ideal for those interested in combining drones with technology.

• Aerospace Engineering
• Computer Science
• Robotics
• Mechanical Engineering
• Electrical Engineering

Interdisciplinary studies are incredibly valuable for aspiring Professional F1 Drone Racers. By combining different fields of study, you can gain a well rounded education that prepares you for the complexities of drone racing – and other careers. 

Studying both Computer Science and Aerospace Engineering can provide a deep understanding of drone mechanics and the software used to control them. 

Courses in Robotics can enhance your knowledge of automation and control systems, which are crucial in drone technology.

You can combine degrees or take elective courses in areas like Physics, Mathematics, and even Business Management to broaden your skill set. This flexibility allows you to adapt to the evolving landscape of drone racing and technology.

Learning doesn’t stop at university. Many Professional F1 Drone Racers continue to educate themselves through workshops, online courses, and self directed learning. 

By staying curious and open to new information, you can continually improve your skills and stay ahead in this fast-paced field.

During your tertiary studies, you’ll learn about drone mechanics, flight dynamics, and advanced control systems. 

You’ll also develop skills in programming, electronics, and data analysis. Practical training will teach you how to build, maintain, and pilot drones, while theoretical courses will cover topics like aerodynamics, signal processing, and artificial intelligence. 

You’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of how drones work and how to optimise their performance in competitive racing.

Gaining work experience is a crucial step towards becoming a Professional F1 Drone Racer. 

LOCAL CLUBS + COMPETITIONS: You can start by joining local drone racing clubs or participating in amateur competitions. 

INTERNSHIP / APPRENTICESHIP: Internships or apprenticeships with tech companies, research labs, or drone manufacturing firms can provide on to job experience and valuable industry connections. 

VOLUNTEER: Volunteering at drone events or working as a technician can also help you build practical skills and a professional network.

Not everyone takes the traditional university route to become a Professional F1 Drone Racer. There are other effective pathways, including:

Vocational Training and Certifications

For those interested in a more direct approach, vocational training and industry certifications offer practical experience and skills development:

• Certificate IV in Aviation (Remote Pilot – Visual Line of Sight)

• • • This certification provides the technical know-how to fly drones, covering both flight operations and legal regulations.

• Diploma in UAV Technology

• • • Focused on unmanned aerial vehicles, this diploma provides hands-on training in assembling, flying, and maintaining drones, giving you the skills needed for racing and beyond.

• Drone Racing Academy Certifications

• • Several drone racing academies offer specialised courses that cover advanced racing techniques, drone assembly, and performance optimisation.

Micro-Learning and Online Courses

For flexible learning, micro-learning courses allow students to focus on specific aspects of drone racing at their own pace:

• Drone Racing Strategies

• • • This online course covers flight techniques, strategies for winning races, and the science behind drone racing physics.

• Drone Engineering Basics

• • Learn the fundamentals of drone construction and aerodynamics, helping racers understand how to build faster and more reliable drones.

On-the-Job Experience

Gain practical experience by working with drone racing teams, tech companies, or as a freelance drone operator. This experience can be incredibly valuable and often just as important as formal education.

Western Australia

In Western Australia, drone racing is growing in popularity. You can find local leagues and competitions to participate in, such as those organised by the West Coast Drone Racing Club. Additionally, there are opportunities to work with mining companies and agricultural businesses that use drones for various applications.

Drone Racing Teams and Competitions in Australia
Australia is home to many top-tier drone racing teams and events. Organisations like Drone Racing Australia support the competitive scene, organising races and offering professional opportunities for aspiring racers to compete in national tournaments.

Drone Sports and Technology Across the Country
Drone racing is growing quickly across Australia, with a focus on technology and competitive sports. Organisations like Drone Racing League Australia offer racers the chance to enter into national circuits, helping to build their skills and reputations.

Global Drone Racing Competitions
On the global stage, the demand for professional drone racers continues to expand. International events such as those organised by the Drone Racing League (DRL) offer racers the chance to compete for large prizes and gain recognition. These global competitions help racers build connections with tech companies involved in drone development and racing technology.

Your future career as a Professional F1 Drone Racer could be thrilling and rewarding. Whether through university degrees, alternative learning paths, or practical work experience, there are many ways to achieve your dreams and soar to new heights in the world of drone racing!