Formula 1 has always been a sport defined by innovation, precision, and relentless pursuit of competitive advantage. As technology has become increasingly integrated into racing, so too has the need for robust cybersecurity. With Oracle Red Bull Racing generating and analyzing terabytes of data per race weekend, securing access to sensitive information has become as vital as aerodynamics and engine performance.
In a multi-year partnership, 1Password has joined forces with Oracle Red Bull Racing as its exclusive Cybersecurity Partner, implementing Extended Access Management to safeguard critical engineering and operational data. This collaboration underscores the growing recognition that in the world of elite motorsport, cybersecurity is no longer just a back-office function—it’s a strategic advantage.
The Role of Data in Modern Formula 1
I sat down with Christian Horner, CEO and team principal of Oracle Red Bull Racing, and David Faugno, Co-CEO of 1Password, to talk about the new partnership and what it means for the two companies.
Formula 1 is not just about mechanical performance—it is a data-driven battle where teams rely on real-time analytics, software automation, and AI-driven insights to gain a competitive edge. Every aspect of car performance, from aerodynamics to tire degradation, is modeled, simulated, and optimized using vast amounts of data.
Horner explained, “Formula 1 is a data-driven business, and the biggest change in the last 20 years has been the amount of data we generate. The ability to process and secure that data efficiently is what allows us to develop cars that never race in the same configuration twice.”
Each Grand Prix car consists of over 6,500 parts, and none of them remain unchanged throughout the season. The team must constantly refine, test, and adjust configurations based on real-time data—a process that demands instant, secure access to sensitive information.
Why Cybersecurity Matters in Formula 1
With millions of dollars invested in research and development, Formula 1 teams face a significant cybersecurity threat—not just from cybercriminals but also from corporate espionage and competitive intelligence risks. Data security is critical for protecting race strategy, proprietary vehicle configurations, and remote engineering workflows.
A single unauthorized access point or compromised credential could expose sensitive IP, race telemetry, or engineering insights that could be exploited by rival teams.
Faugno emphasized this point: “When you’re dealing with that volume of data, what ultimately matters is how you process it and make decisions. But accessing that data securely and efficiently—wherever it’s needed—is just as critical as the data itself. That’s at the heart of what we do.”
By integrating 1Password Extended Access Management, Oracle Red Bull Racing ensures that only authorized personnel on trusted devices can access critical systems, no matter where in the world they are operating.
How 1Password Strengthens Security Without Slowing Down Performance
One of the greatest challenges in cybersecurity is balancing security and usability. Many security solutions introduce friction, slowing down operations or forcing employees to use insecure workarounds. However, 1Password’s philosophy focuses on seamless access management that enhances productivity without compromising security.
The two described how Oracle Red Bull Racing will leverage 1Password Extended Access Management to:
Secure access to applications – Gain centralized visibility into all apps, both sanctioned and unsanctioned.
Safeguard proprietary innovation – Ensure only trusted team members and devices can access sensitive engineering data.
Drive efficiency in a global, hybrid workforce – Enable engineers, mechanics, and strategists to securely access race-critical systems from anywhere.
Enhance real-time remote operations – Protect data transfers between the trackside team and headquarters, where dozens of additional engineers analyze real-time telemetry to inform race strategy.
Automate secrets management – Securely manage SSH keys and sensitive credentials to protect software development and cloud-based infrastructure.
According to Horner, the decision to partner with 1Password was about more than just branding. “We always look for partners who bring real technological value to our team. It’s not just about putting a logo on a car—it’s about working with companies that align with our mission for speed, efficiency, and innovation. Cybersecurity is an area we identified as crucial, and 1Password helps us stay at the cutting edge of both performance and protection.”
Beyond Cybersecurity: Supporting the Next Generation of Racing Talent
The partnership between Oracle Red Bull Racing and 1Password extends beyond the racetrack. 1Password is also supporting the Red Bull Racing Pepe Jeans Academy Programme as part of the F1 Academy, which aims to develop the next generation of female racing talent.
Through this initiative, 1Password is sponsoring 18-year-old Alisha Palmowski, a rising star in motorsports. This investment aligns with Red Bull Racing’s broader commitment to diversity and inclusion, ensuring that young female drivers have access to the mentorship, tools, and opportunities necessary to succeed at the highest levels of racing.
Horner highlighted the importance of the initiative. “Red Bull has always been at the forefront of initiatives that support diversity in motorsports. We are the only team that has committed to three cars in the F1 Academy, and we’re proud to see 1Password investing in this as well. The program provides a clear path for female drivers, and it’s something we take very seriously.”
Faugno added, “At 1Password, our culture is about putting people first and creating opportunities. We believe that investing in the next generation of talent—whether in cybersecurity or motorsports—is essential for long-term progress. Partnering with Red Bull Racing on this initiative was a natural fit.”
The Future of Cybersecurity in Formula 1
As Formula 1 continues to embrace cloud-based computing, AI-driven decision-making, and digital collaboration, the need for robust identity security solutions will only grow. The collaboration between Oracle Red Bull Racing and 1Password demonstrates that cybersecurity is not just an IT concern, but a performance enabler.
With real-time secure access to critical data, seamless integration across applications and devices, and a commitment to speed without compromise, the partnership exemplifies how technology and cybersecurity are shaping the future of high-performance motorsports.
