Formula 1 to transport 20% air cargo on SAF

Motor racing competition Formula 1 announced that it will use sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) to on 20% of its flights haul cargo this season in partnership with DHL.

The company said that the first phase of investment focuses on SAF purchases through DHL for air cargo to and from flyaway races since the Australian Grand Prix in March.

“Formula 1 has always been at the forefront of innovation, and our early stage investment in Sustainable Aviation Fuel is a testament to our dedication to deliver on our Net Zero by 2030 commitment. SAF is just the latest step for the business, and underscores how alternative fuels both on and off track can materially reduce carbon emissions. This delivery of our sustainability strategy is only made possible through coordinated actions across our sport,” said Ellen Jones, Head of ESG, Formula 1.

The racing company said that in this first phase of investment, Formula 1 is procuring SAF using the industry recognised ‘book and claim’ model through DHL’s GoGreen Plus service as it is not possible to directly fuel cargo planes used to move F1 freight with SAF.

“Our longstanding partnership with Formula 1 is built on a shared passion for innovation and excellence. We are committed to using our expertise to transport Formula 1’s cars and equipment around the world in the most efficient way possible. With 40 years of expertise in motorsports logistics, we are focused on cutting down greenhouse gas emissions and making motorsport more sustainable with every step we take,” said Paul Fowler, head of motorsports logistics, DHL.

Moreover, F1 said the adoption of SAF is in line with its goal to reduce carbon emissions. The company said that it plans to run F1 cars on 100% sustainable fuel from 2026 onwards.