Former Red Bull Mechanic Reveals 'Scars' from F1 Aero Rakes

Calum Nicholas, a former Red Bull Racing senior engine technician, recently disclosed that handling the 'aero rakes' used in F1 testing left him with permanent scars. Nicholas, who spent a decade with the team from 2015 to 2025 before transitioning to an ambassadorial role, highlighted the often-overlooked physical hazards faced by mechanics in the fast-paced world of Formula 1.

Why it matters:

The revelation by a seasoned mechanic like Nicholas sheds light on the less glamorous, and at times dangerous, aspects of working in an F1 garage. While the focus is often on drivers and car performance, the intricate and often hazardous equipment mechanics handle daily poses real risks, reminding us of the dedication and physical toll behind the scenes of Grand Prix racing.

The Details:

• Aero Rakes Defined: Aero rakes are crucial testing devices attached to F1 cars to measure air pressure and provide real-time aerodynamic data. These intricate structures are fitted with numerous sensors and are often delicate yet surprisingly sharp.
• Chronic Injuries: Nicholas shared on social media that he sustained multiple injuries from these devices during pre-season testing, describing them as "thorny skin magnets." He recounted instances of being cut on his fingers, elbows, and neck.
• Prioritizing Equipment: Despite bleeding, mechanics often worry more about damaging the expensive aero rakes than their own injuries, underscoring the high-pressure environment and the cost associated with specialized F1 equipment.
• Temporary but Troublesome: Aero rakes are typically used only for the initial runs of the day, yet during their brief deployment, they prove to be a "pain in the a**" for the pit crew.
• Life of an F1 Mechanic: This isn't the first time Nicholas has spoken out about the realities of a mechanic's life. He previously challenged a fan's notion of a "three-second work shift," detailing the demanding 70-hour work weeks and average salaries of around £60k, emphasizing that pit crew members aren't paid extra for their specialized roles.

Between the lines:

Nicholas's candid comments offer a rare glimpse into the physical demands and minor, yet frequent, hazards faced by F1 mechanics. These insights challenge the often-glamorized perception of F1, revealing the gritty, behind-the-scenes reality where precision, speed, and safety intersect, often with personal cost.

Looking Ahead:

As F1 continues to push boundaries in technology and performance, the safety and well-being of all personnel, including mechanics, remain paramount. While aero rakes are indispensable for data collection, Nicholas's account might spark further consideration of design improvements or safety protocols to mitigate such common, yet painful, injuries for the dedicated individuals in the pit lane.