Neil Martin, Speaker | F1 Strategy & Data Analytics

Neil Martin

Crunch the numbers and finesse your decision-making skills for business success with Neil Martin, F1 Data Analytics Expert and Former Head of Strategy at Ferrari and McLaren.

Neil Martin | Speaker Biography

Pioneer in applying Monte Carlo/Game Theory in F1 Race Strategy

Held key data analytics positions at McLaren, Red Bull Racing, and Ferrari

Founder and CEO of Paceteq, innovating in data analytics and AI in motorsport

Neil Martin has been a trailblazer in the field of data analytics in Formula 1 motor racing for the past 25 years. He has held key positions in renowned teams such as McLaren, Red Bull Racing, and Ferrari, where he has developed top-notch solutions.

Currently, he is the founder and CEO of Paceteq, a technology company that focuses on innovation, digitalization, data analytics, artificial intelligence, and intelligent automation to enhance performance. Paceteq has rapidly grown and collaborates with prestigious clients, including major motor racing series. Neil's software, designed by him or derived from his applications, is now used by more than half of the Formula 1 grid. This solidifies his position as a leader in data analytics and a highly experienced manager of complex motorsport programs.

In 1995, Neil pioneered the application of Monte Carlo and Game Theory modelling techniques to Race Strategy at McLaren Racing. By utilizing mathematical and business modelling techniques, he provided strategic options that enabled decision-makers to understand potential outcomes and associated risks comprehensively. This innovative approach served as a foundation for Neil to develop mission control rooms, driver-in-the-loop simulators, and wind tunnel solutions. He revolutionized Race Strategy modelling by embracing uncertainty rather than avoiding or ignoring it. Neil's academic background in mathematics and computer science from the University of Southampton and his MSc research paper on risk assessment propelled his successful career in international motorsport, which spanned over three decades.

As part of senior management at McLaren Racing, Red Bull Racing, and Ferrari, Neil has worked closely with numerous World Champions, including Mika Häkkinen, Kimi Raikkonen, Fernando Alonso, and Sebastien Vettel. His experience in Formula 1 encompasses building and leading high-performing teams of engineers and technical staff, ensuring that cutting-edge technology and exceptional teamwork combine to achieve successful outcomes.

Motorsport

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Plan For The Future

The ability to think strategically is one of the most important leadership traits you can have. It also makes you a highly effective leader. Don't just focus on solving today's problems, but also look to the future.

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More than any other sport, Formula One has embraced a data-driven business culture, particularly as regards its near obsession with marginal gains and continuous improvement. Starting in the late 1980s, teams began to develop the ability to gather, process, store, and utilise information streams in order to better manage risk, optimise performance and guarantee outcomes. Data acquisition and analytics are now a cornerstone technology, enabling drivers, trackside engineers, and headquarters staff to determine precisely how the car and driver are behaving, diagnose issues, resolve problems, and speed up decision-making. As information flows seamlessly around the globe, linking cars, teams, and factories, data security is essential, and robust systems ensure protection from multiple threats. The use of simulators has transformed driver training, enabling systems to be learned, tested, and developed in a virtual environment before real-world deployment. With the advent of additive manufacturing, machine learning, and AI across Formula One, the sport’s use of Big Data to transform all aspects of its operations is set to accelerate further.

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